What Is Biofilm — and Why It Matters for Your Smile and Health
When most people think of dental hygiene, they picture ‘plaque.’ In reality, what builds up on teeth and gums is a biofilm — a living, organised community of bacteria protected by a slimy layer.
Left undisturbed, biofilm causes gum inflammation, bleeding, bad breath, and eventually bone loss. Research shows it also contributes to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections, because oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation throughout the body.
Why Traditional “Scaling and Polishing” Is No Longer Enough
Conventional cleaning often relies on scraping and polishing pastes to remove visible deposits. While effective, it can miss deeper or hidden biofilm colonies, feel uncomfortable for sensitive patients, and slightly wear down enamel or restorations over time. Modern dentistry has moved beyond this — hygienists now focus on biofilm management, not just ‘tooth cleaning.’
The Modern Approach: Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)
At Vilafortuny Dental Clinic, Dubai, we use the EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy system —
the same protocol trusted by top hygiene specialists worldwide (EMS Dental GBT Concept).
Here’s how it works in 7 gentle steps:
1. Diagnosis & Disclosure – A harmless dye reveals biofilm so you can see problem areas.
2. Motivation & Education – Your hygienist explains what’s happening in your mouth and how to maintain health at home.
3. AIRFLOW® Treatment – A warm, pressurised jet of water, air, and fine erythritol powder removes soft biofilm comfortably.
4. PERIOFLOW® for Gums – Targets deeper pockets without discomfort.
5. PIEZON® No-Pain Technology – Ultrasonic cleaning for any remaining calculus.
6. Final Check & Fluoride Protection.
7. Personalised Maintenance Plan – We schedule your next visit based on your individual risk and lifestyle.
No scraping, no noise, no discomfort — just a fresh, polished feeling and visible results.
Why Patients Love the GBT Experience
Patients often describe the GBT session as ‘a spa for your mouth.’
It’s fast, gentle, and surprisingly relaxing.
You can literally watch the pink-purple disclosing gel disappear as biofilm is removed.
(look at the number of reviews and the patterns in the reviews, it’s all pointing to one theme: “doctors, staff that are highly skilled and work with passion with quality tools”).
Our hygienist also appreciates GBT because it allows precision without abrasion,
preserving enamel and implants while achieving better results in less time.
Health Beyond the Mouth
Managing biofilm means more than fresh breath.
By reducing bacterial load and inflammation, you’re supporting:
• Healthier gums and bone
• Lower systemic inflammation levels
• Improved sleep and airway function (for patients in our airway programs)
• A stronger immune response overall.
Your dental hygiene appointment becomes a preventive-wellness visit, not merely a ‘cleaning.’
Book Your Guided Biofilm Therapy Session
Ready to experience the difference?
Book your appointment or learn more here:
References
EMS Dental. Guided Biofilm Therapy Concept & Clinical Protocol.
Journal of Clinical Periodontology (2024). Biofilm Management and Systemic Inflammation.
British Dental Journal (2023). Implementation of Guided Biofilm Therapy in Modern Hygiene Practice.
