Airflow / GBT Therapy

“my teeth have never felt cleaner.”

What is Airflow?

Airflow is an advanced dental hygiene tool designed to make cleanings more comfortable and effective. This system uses a combination of air, water, and a special fine powder to effectively remove biofilm, stains, and early-stage calculus. Research has shown that Airflow treatment is less abrasive than traditional polishing with pastes which means it’s safe for natural teeth, restorations, implants, and orthodontic appliances making it versatile for all types of patients. Since the powder is gentle it’s also effective below the gumline, on the tongue, and can even be used on children. Airflow is an integral part of Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), which focuses on preventing and treating oral diseases while enhancing the patient experience.

What is Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)? 

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is a comprehensive, patient-focused protocol for dental cleanings that aims to prevent and manage oral diseases by targeting biofilm—the root cause of many dental issues. The process begins with an assessment of the patient's oral health and specific needs, followed by the application of a disclosing agent to highlight biofilm on the teeth, gums and tongue. Airflow is then used to remove the biofilm, stains, and early calculus formations. An ultrasonic instrument is then used for the deeper, hard-to-reach areas where larger, more mature calculus has accumulated. This process eliminates the need for traditional polishing that is abrasive to the teeth and promotes optimal healing. 

GBT and Airflow at Toothlife

At Toothlife Studio, Airflow is integral to our dental care approach, offering a gentle yet highly effective method for various procedures. Recognized as the new gold standard in dental hygiene, GBT promotes optimal tissue healing and removes more biofilm than traditional methods. Due to its gentle nature, we use Airflow on all patients, even children. During a hygiene appointment or deep cleaning, your hygienist will apply a disclosing solution on your teeth and remove it with the Airflow. An ultrasonic instrument will be used followed by hand instruments to ensure a thorough cleaning. The Airflow may be used again at the end if there is any residual staining or biofilm. You may also see the Airflow being used before fillings are placed, before a tooth whitening, and before pit and fissure sealants are placed.