Padstow Dental | 14 Howard Road, Padstow NSW | 02 9773 4775
Dentistry
The eight-step Guided Biofilm Therapy protocol, tailored to your teeth and gums.
GBT dental cleaning in Padstow
The eight-step Guided Biofilm Therapy protocol, tailored to your teeth and gums.
A clean with your long-term oral health in mind
At Padstow Dental, we use Guided Biofilm Therapy, or GBT, as part of our preventive care. Developed by EMS, this eight-step protocol brings assessment, plaque disclosure, professional cleaning and personalised advice into a clear sequence.
Your visit is tailored to your mouth. We explain our findings, select the treatment you need and help you understand how to care for your teeth and gums between appointments.
Enquire about a GBT clean
A clear eight-step protocol
Assessment, targeted cleaning and a plan for ongoing care.
Make plaque visible
Disclosure helps guide treatment and shows where home care can improve.
Treatment matched to your needs
AIRFLOW, PERIOFLOW and PIEZON have different roles within the protocol.
What is biofilm and why remove it?
Biofilm is the organised layer of microorganisms that builds up on teeth, commonly known as dental plaque. It collects along the gumline, between teeth and in other areas that can be difficult to clean.
Plaque can contribute to tooth decay and gum inflammation. Red, swollen or bleeding gums may be signs of gingivitis. More advanced gum disease, called periodontitis, affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and needs a specific treatment plan.
Professional cleaning and effective daily home care work together. Biofilm forms again, so ongoing care matters.
How the GBT protocol guides your care
GBT starts by identifying where biofilm is present. Removing this soft plaque first helps the clinician see any remaining hardened deposits and direct scaling to the areas that need it. The aim is thorough cleaning while avoiding unnecessary instrumentation.
AIRFLOW is one part of the protocol. The full approach also includes assessment, coaching in home care, a final check and planning your next visit. The equipment used at each stage depends on your clinical needs.
The eight steps of Guided Biofilm Therapy
Here is how the EMS protocol translates into your care. Some treatment stages, particularly cleaning deeper pockets, are used only when indicated.
Assessment and infection control
We review your health history, medicines, allergies and concerns, then assess your teeth, gums and any implants. Gum measurements help guide treatment. We prepare for care using appropriate infection-control measures and may recommend a suitable mouth rinse before cleaning.
Disclose
A temporary colouring solution reveals plaque on the teeth. It shows us where to focus cleaning and helps you see the areas that are harder to reach during your daily routine.
Motivate
We use what you can see to discuss practical changes to home care. This may include adjusting your brushing technique or choosing an interdental brush or floss. The conversation is supportive and tailored to you.
AIRFLOW
AIRFLOW uses a controlled spray of air, water and fine powder to lift away biofilm and surface stains. The powder and technique are selected for the surfaces being treated. This stage does not replace the removal of remaining hardened tartar.
PERIOFLOW
Where deeper gum pockets need treatment, PERIOFLOW uses a slim, single-use nozzle to remove biofilm below the gumline. This stage is selected when clinically appropriate and is not needed at every appointment.
PIEZON PS
Remaining tartar, also called calculus, is removed with ultrasonic scaling. In the EMS protocol, PIEZON uses a fine vibrating instrument and water to work on these deposits. Suitable instruments are selected for natural teeth, restorations and implants.
Check
We check for remaining deposits and areas needing further attention. Clean tooth surfaces also support examination for decay and other concerns. Fluoride protection may be recommended according to your needs, and we explain any further treatment.
Recall
We agree on the next review or maintenance visit based on your gum health, decay risk, home care and treatment history. Your care plan is reviewed over time, rather than applying the same interval to everyone.
A considered approach to your comfort
If you have sensitive teeth or have found previous cleans uncomfortable, let us know. We can explain the process, check how you are feeling and discuss suitable comfort measures.
No cleaning method is comfortable for everyone. Inflamed gums and exposed roots may be tender. Your medical history, allergies and clinical findings help us select the equipment and approach for you.
When you need more than a routine clean
GBT can form part of professional biofilm management, but your diagnosis determines the treatment you need. Periodontitis may require more extensive cleaning below the gums, sometimes across several appointments with local anaesthetic, followed by reassessment and maintenance.
Persistent bleeding, recession, loose teeth or ongoing bad breath deserve assessment. Gum disease may progress without significant pain. We will explain our findings and recommend further care or referral when needed.
Keeping up the care at home
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth using the method recommended for your mouth. We can help with brushing technique and the selection and use of interdental brushes or floss.
Your next appointment depends on your gum health, plaque control and risk factors. People with a history of periodontitis may need closer maintenance. We will explain the recommended interval and why it matters for you.
Cleaning and whitening have different roles
Removing surface stains can make your teeth look cleaner and brighter. GBT does not bleach teeth or change their underlying natural colour. If you would like a lighter shade, we can discuss professional whitening separately.
Explore Zoom teeth whiteningFrequently asked questions
Do I need every treatment stage at every visit?
The protocol sets the order of care, while treatment at each stage depends on your needs. For example, PERIOFLOW is used for suitable deeper pockets, and scaling is directed to hardened deposits that remain. We explain which parts of the treatment are appropriate for you.
Does GBT replace scaling?
Scaling remains part of GBT when tartar is present. AIRFLOW focuses on biofilm and surface stains, while PIEZON or other suitable scaling instruments remove the remaining hardened deposits.
Can I have GBT if my gums bleed?
Bleeding gums should be assessed. We will check the cause and whether you need routine preventive care or a more detailed gum treatment plan.
What if I have implants, crowns or braces?
Tell us about your dental work. The clinician assesses the surfaces and surrounding tissues and selects compatible cleaning methods, powders and instruments. Existing dental work does not remove the need for professional review.
How long will my visit take and what will it cost?
The time and fee depend on the care required. Our team will confirm the appointment details and explain what is included. Additional gum treatment, if needed, will be discussed with you.
Do I still need to clean carefully at home?
Yes. Biofilm continues to form after your appointment. Professional care supports your daily routine, and we will help you make that routine effective.
Plan your next preventive care visit
Whether you are due for a clean, concerned about your gums or looking for help with home care, our team can assess your needs and explain your options.
Enquire about a GBT cleanCall us on 02 9773 4775.
* Please note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding with a surgical or invasive procedure, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Enquire about a GBT clean
Book a preventive care visit or ask us how Guided Biofilm Therapy fits your needs.
Or call us directly on 02 9773 4775 to speak with our team.
Location
14 Howard Road, Padstow NSW
1 minute walk from Padstow Station
Easy parking
Practice Hours
Mon, Tues, Wed 9.00am – 5.30pm
Thu, Fri 8.30am – 5.00pm