Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) has emerged as a game-changer in dental implant maintenance, and AirFlow technology stands at its forefront. As a dental hygienist, I advocate for the highest standard of care for dental implants, which are significant medical devices.
GBT, with its 8-step protocol, combined with AirFlow and PerioFlow technologies, offers an unparalleled approach to sustaining implant health.
GBT is structured into eight meticulous steps, each playing a vital role in implant care. It starts with assessment and diagnosis, followed by disclosing and motivating patients about oral hygiene. The subsequent steps involve meticulous cleaning using advanced technologies like AirFlow, followed by systematic assessment and maintenance. This protocol ensures comprehensive care, from patient education to clinical intervention.
AirFlow Technology: A Cornerstone of GBT
AirFlow technology is pivotal in GBT, particularly in the removal of soft deposits and biofilm. It uses a gentle yet effective stream of air, water, and fine powder to meticulously clean the teeth and implants. This technology is especially beneficial for dental implants because it cleans effectively without causing any damage to the implant surface or surrounding tissues.
The Role of Erythritol in AirFlow
Erythritol, used in AirFlow, is a key factor in its effectiveness. It's a non-toxic, sweet-tasting compound that acts as a gentle abrasive, ensuring thorough biofilm removal without harming the implant's integrity. This makes it an ideal choice for maintaining the delicate balance between cleanliness and preservation of the implant structure. When soft deposits are present, the combination of AirFlow technology and erythritol powder becomes crucial. This duo gently yet effectively removes deposits with minimal damage to the implant and surrounding tissue, ensuring the health of the gums and longevity of the implant. It is important to regularly clean and maintain the implant structure to prevent any complications or issues in the future.
PerioFlow Technology: Enhancing Deep Cleaning
Complementing AirFlow is PerioFlow technology, designed for deep cleaning around dental implants. It reaches areas that are typically challenging to clean, ensuring thorough removal of biofilm and prevention of peri-implant diseases. This instrument is my go-to for All-on-X dental implant prosthetics. Prior to having PerioFlow, I felt like I was just hoping for the best when I was managing these prosthetic devices. I was concerned I was damaging the prosthetic, the implants, and hurting the patient before I had PerioFlow.
Biofilm Management: The Key to Implant Health
Managing biofilm is crucial for the longevity of dental implants. Biofilm, a complex structure of bacteria, can lead to infections and implant failure if not properly controlled. Regular and effective biofilm management through GBT and AirFlow technology is essential to prevent these complications and ensure the health and longevity of dental implants.
GBT and Patient Motivation: A Synergistic Approach
A unique aspect of GBT is its emphasis on patient education and motivation. In step 3, we focus on teaching patients proper home care techniques for managing bacteria and biofilm. This proactive approach empowers patients to take an active role in maintaining their implant health, reducing the risk of peri-implant diseases. I often say that I can be the best hygienist, but what I do while the patient is in my dental chair will only go so far! I have to help the patient want to do the work at home and find the products that are going to help them do this easily! Ultimately, it is the patient's responsibility to take care of their oral hygiene.
Piezon Technology: Addressing Hard Deposits
For hard deposits like calculus, GBT employs Piezon technology with a PI Max instrument tip, specifically designed for dental implants. This technology ensures that even the most stubborn deposits are removed safely and effectively, without damaging the implant surface.
My last thoughts
GBT, with its comprehensive and systematic approach, is essential for maintaining dental implants. As dental professionals, it is our responsibility to be equipped with the right technology, such as AirFlow and Piezon, to provide the best possible care for these critical medical devices. Embracing GBT and its advanced technologies is not just about maintaining dental implants; it's about ensuring the overall oral health and well-being of our patients.
I love practicing GBT and writing about it. You can check out past blogs I have written on this topic here: What is Guided Biofilm Teeth Therapy and why do you need it?