A More Purposeful Approach to Dental Cleanings
At Urban Smiles Family Dental Centre, we use Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) to make professional cleanings more targeted and thorough. Rather than simply cleaning what we can see, GBT helps our hygienists identify where plaque and biofilm have collected so they know exactly where to focus.
Using EMS technology, we can highlight areas of buildup, remove plaque and surface stains, and clean around the gums and other hard-to-reach areas. It also gives you a better understanding of where plaque tends to collect, so you can make adjustments to your brushing and flossing routine at home.
Is it time for your next dental cleaning? Contact us to book your appointment today.
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What Is Guided Biofilm Therapy?
Guided Biofilm Therapy is a professional dental cleaning approach that focuses on identifying and removing biofilm, a layer of bacteria that naturally builds up on your teeth and gums. If left in place, biofilm can contribute to cavities, gum inflammation, and gum disease.
GBT uses a combination of visual detection and specialized cleaning technology to help our team provide a thorough cleaning. The process may include:
- Plaque disclosing: A temporary dye highlights areas where biofilm has collected, making it easier for our team to see and remove.
- Air polishing: A controlled stream of air, warm water, and fine cleaning powder helps remove biofilm and surface stains.
- Ultrasonic scaling: Specialized instruments use gentle vibrations and water to help remove hardened deposits when needed. your smile and maintain your oral health for years to come.
See Where Plaque Is Hiding
One of the benefits of GBT is that it makes plaque buildup easier to see. A temporary disclosing agent highlights areas where biofilm has collected, including spots that may be easy to miss during everyday brushing and flossing.
This helps our team:
- Focus cleaning where it’s needed most.
- Identify areas that may need more attention at home.
- Provide personalized brushing and flossing guidance.
- Monitor your oral hygiene over time.
Your cleaning becomes more than just removing buildup. It can also help you better understand your own oral health.patients are seen by appointment only.
Who Can Benefit from Guided Biofilm Therapy?
GBT can be used as part of routine dental hygiene care for many patients. Your hygienist can tailor the approach to your individual oral health needs.
It may be particularly helpful for patients who have:
- Braces or other orthodontic appliances
- Dental implants, crowns, or bridges
- Plaque or tartar buildup
- Gum inflammation
- Areas that are difficult to clean at home
How Does a GBT Cleaning Work?
Your GBT appointment begins with an assessment of your teeth and gums. A disclosing agent is then used to highlight biofilm, giving your hygienist a clear picture of where buildup is present.
EMS technology is used to help remove the highlighted biofilm and surface stains. If there is hardened tartar or buildup that requires additional treatment, ultrasonic scaling may also be used.
The result is a targeted cleaning based on what your hygienist sees during your appointment, rather than following the exact same approach for every patient.
Why Is Removing Biofilm Important?
Biofilm is a normal part of the oral environment, but allowing it to remain on your teeth can contribute to common oral health concerns. Regular professional cleanings help keep buildup under control and support the health of your teeth and gums.
Keeping biofilm under control can help reduce your risk of:
- Tooth decay
- Gingivitis and gum disease
- Gum inflammation
- Plaque buildup around dental restorations
- Oral health concerns around dental implants
GBT is one part of a larger preventive care routine that includes regular dental visits, brushing, and flossing at home.
Keep Your Dental Hygiene on Track
Your hygienist can use what they see during your GBT appointment to provide personalized tips for brushing and flossing at home. We’ll also recommend a cleaning schedule based on your individual oral health needs.
If you’re due for a dental cleaning, discover a more targeted approach with Guided Biofilm Therapy at Urban Smiles Family Dental Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is a professional dental cleaning approach that uses specialized technology to identify and remove biofilm, a layer of bacteria that builds up on your teeth and gums. It helps our team provide a more targeted cleaning based on where buildup is present.
GBT is a different approach to professional dental hygiene. It uses a disclosing agent to highlight biofilm and specialized EMS technology to help remove it. Your hygienist may also use ultrasonic scaling when needed to remove hardened deposits.
Removing biofilm regularly can help reduce the buildup that contributes to tooth decay, gum inflammation, and gum disease. GBT also helps identify areas where you may need to improve your brushing or flossing technique at home.
EMS technology is used during Guided Biofilm Therapy to help remove biofilm, plaque, and surface stains. It uses a combination of air, water, and fine powder to clean the surfaces of your teeth and other areas where buildup may collect.
Yes. A temporary disclosing agent can highlight areas where biofilm has collected on your teeth. This allows your hygienist to see where cleaning is needed and can help you understand which areas may need more attention when brushing and flossing at home.
GBT can be used for many patients as part of their regular dental hygiene care. It can be particularly useful for patients with braces, dental implants, crowns, bridges, or areas that are difficult to clean effectively at home. Your hygienist can determine whether GBT is appropriate for you.
Your recommended cleaning schedule depends on your individual oral health. Many patients have professional cleanings every six months, while others may benefit from more frequent visits. Your dental team will recommend a schedule based on your needs.
No. GBT is part of your professional dental hygiene care and works alongside good oral hygiene at home. Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth regularly remain important for maintaining a healthy smile.
If you’re due for a dental cleaning or want to learn more about GBT, contact Urban Smiles Family Dental Centre to request an appointment. Our team can answer your questions and help determine the right approach for your dental hygiene needs.
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Why Choose Urban Smiles?
Generations of Trusted Care
For years, we’ve had the privilege of caring for families throughout Edmonton, with many patients continuing to visit our practice across different stages of life. Our strong patient relationships and word-of-mouth referrals reflect the trust we’ve built through years of thoughtful, quality dental care.
A Team You Know and Trust
A familiar face can make all the difference when it comes to your dental experience. Our long-standing team takes the time to listen, remember your preferences, and understand your unique needs. We’re proud to provide continuity of care from a team that genuinely enjoys getting to know our patients.
Personalized Care That Goes the Extra Mile
Every patient has different goals, concerns, and priorities. We take the time to discuss your options, answer your questions, and create a care plan that’s right for you. With a combination of modern dentistry and a welcoming approach, we’re committed to providing thoughtful care you can feel confident about.
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Where to Find Us
We’re conveniently located near Calgary Trail and Whyte Avenue, serving patients throughout the Strathcona area and surrounding Edmonton communities. Our dental clinic is easy to access and offers a comfortable place for your family’s dental care.
Where to Park
There is plenty of free parking available right outside the clinic!
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- Phone: 780-989-6030
- Email: reception@urbansmiles.ca
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*Open Saturdays 2x per month
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- Phone: 780-989-6030
- Email: reception@urbansmiles.ca