EMS AIRFLOW handpiece and Prophylaxis Master unit used for Guided Biofilm Therapy dental cleanings at Integrated Smile Studio in Huntington Beach, CA

EMS AIRFLOW® In
Integrated Smile Studio

What is EMS Airflow?

EMS AIRFLOW® is a modern, non-invasive dental hygiene technology that uses a precise mixture of air, warm water, and fine powder (usually erythritol) to remove plaque, biofilm, and stains. It is a key component of Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), offering a faster, more comfortable, and less abrasive alternative to traditional scraping, suitable for teeth, restorations, and implants.

Key Aspects of EMS Airflow

  • How it Works: The handheld device sprays a controlled, warm, and gentle stream that reaches into deep periodontal pockets and hard-to-reach areas, removing bacteria without harsh vibrations.
  • Benefits: It provides a painless, fast, and thorough cleaning experience, often eliminating the need for traditional polishing pastes. It is safe for enamel, gums, implants, and braces.
  • Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT): This 8-step, evidence-based protocol uses the AIRFLOW® Prophylaxis Master to detect, remove, and manage oral biofilm efficiently, reducing the need for manual scaling.
  • Experience: The procedure is generally more comfortable for patients, reducing sensitivity and improving patient compliance, often described as a "dental spa" experience.
Teeth with biofilm disclosing agent applied during Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) at Integrated Smile Studio in Huntington Beach, CA

What is Guided Biofilm Therapy?

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is an evidence-based, 8-step, patient-centered dental hygiene protocol designed to remove oral biofilm (plaque) and tartar efficiently using Airflow and Piezon technologies. Developed by EMS, this minimally invasive, often painless method uses disclosing agents to target plaque specifically, aiming for maximum comfort and better oral health outcomes compared to traditional scaling

Key Components and Benefits of GBT:

  • Precision Targeting: Uses biofilm disclosing agents to stain plaque, ensuring no area is missed and reducing unnecessary cleaning.
  • Technology-Driven: Employs EMS AIRFLOW® to remove biofilm, stains, and young calculus with water, powder, and heat, reducing the need for traditional, uncomfortable scraping.
  • Gentle and Effective: Suitable for teeth, implants, and gums (including periodontal pockets with Perioflow).
  • Key Steps: The process includes Assessing, Disclosing, Motivating, Airflow, Perioflow, Piezon (for remaining calculus), Checking, and setting recall intervals.
  • Superior Results: Studies indicate that air-polishing with glycine or erythritol powder is more effective than manual debridement in reducing bleeding on probing (BOP) and removing plaque.

Who Can Benefit from Guided Biofilm Therapy?

GBT is suitable for a wide range of patients. Whether you're dealing with chronic periodontitis, gingivitis, peri-implantitis, or you simply want to maintain your oral health, GBT can be an effective solution.

  • If you're prone to gum disease or have a history of periodontal issues, GBT can help manage these conditions.
  • If you have dental implants, GBT can help maintain their longevity and health.
  • Even if you have a healthy mouth, GBT can be a preventative measure to keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition

What to Expect During a GBT Treatment?

During a GBT treatment, your dental hygienist will first assess your oral health and explain the procedure. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment. 

  • The procedure begins with the application of a disclosing solution that makes the biofilm visible.
  • Your hygienist will then use the AIRFLOW®, PERIOFLOW®, and PIEZON® technologies to gently and effectively remove the biofilm.
  • After the treatment, your hygienist will provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help maintain the results.

GBT is typically painless, and most patients report a pleasant, clean feeling after the treatment. Learn more about the 8-steps that make the full GBT experience.