Getting your teeth cleaned can now be a delightful experience, that is both highly effective and safe for sensitive teeth and gums.
Using Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) with our new machine called the Airflow, we can combine state-of-the-art technology with expert precision to target and eliminate harmful biofilm. This promotes healthier gums and brighter smiles for our patients!
We're the first certified general dentistry offices in Bend to have the technology for our hygienists to use, and we are really excited to share it with you!
What is Biofilm?
Biofilm is a fancy term for bacteria that accumulates on your teeth in a sticky matrix. While the initial bacteria might be harmless, over time it can become increasingly harmful to your teeth and gums. The problem is, you can’t see it!
Bacterial Biofilm has a layering effect in the mouth. This means that the first kinds of bacteria to colonize are harmless and usually removed in 24 hours with proper brushing and flossing techniques. These are reflected in the pale pink dye that you see below. As biofilm matures, more harmful bacterial strains attach themselves, and those are shown in the dark purple dye color. The longer the bacteria is allowed to stay on the teeth, the higher the risk of the pH changing in the mouth. This can cause an increase in risk for things like cavities.
Photo above from EMS Dental (source).
That’s where GBT comes in! This advanced process uses a special dye, like the one above, to make the biofilm and plaque visible to the hygienist. This allows them to target and remove it more effectively than ever before. It’s like shining a spotlight on the enemy!
Using the Airflow system, we can now thoroughly remove biofilm, not just from what you see on the enamel, but up to 4mm below the gumline!
Thorough Cleanings = Better Results
The takeaway here is that with the Airflow machine and GBT, your teeth and gums are getting a more thorough clean, especially below the gumline. This, in turn, reduces the risk of decay and other dental health issues that can arise from bacteria in the mouth and pH changes.
For our patients with periodontal disease, we have a special instrument called the Perioflow that can reach even deeper into gum tissue pockets - up to 9mm! What a reach! This tool is really effective at removing harmful bacteria where traditional methods often fall short, due to the depth of the pocket and accessibility.
Airflow Gets An All Around A+
Airflow isn’t just for periodontal patients. If you have braces, you are also going to love how easily and effectively we can remove plaque and debris around orthodontic wires. (Did we just hear a universal sigh of relief?) It really is an amazing tool!
If you’re someone that dreads the part of the cleaning that involves scaling (scraping off plaque and hardened tartar) you’ll be happy to hear we have a second step in the process using a handpiece called the Piezo scaler. The Piezo scaler can remove 90% of calculus without ever picking up a traditional scaler. Plus, the stream of warm water makes this feel like a spa day for your teeth - especially if you suffer from tooth sensitivity.
The Airflow machine is a crowd pleaser; from those with sensitive teeth to patients with braces. It’s gentle, efficient, and delivers superior results. At Mill Point Dental, we’re committed to providing the highest level of dental care in Bend, while still having a whole lot of fun. Between our relaxing view of the Deschutes River from the dental chair and the way we are genuinely invested in your health, your teeth (and smile) are in good hands!
Come on in and try it out!
If you’re ready to experience what an upgraded teeth cleaning with GBT can feel like, schedule your appointment today! Call us at (541) 388-0078 to book. We can’t wait for you to try it for yourself!