Visiting your dentist once every six months for a thorough cleaning is essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, and other serious oral health issues. But do you find traditional dental cleaning techniques to be somewhat uncomfortable? Dr. Nawrocki is happy to offer a gentler, less invasive alternative in the form of guided biofilm therapy. To learn more about this modern approach to dental cleaning, read on or give our team a call.
What is Biofilm Therapy?
Biofilm is a sticky substance that can form on your teeth. It is produced by harmful oral bacteria after they feed on sugar. When biofilm is left alone, it can ultimately lead to serious consequences such as tooth decay and gum infections.
Dentists regularly remove biofilm as part of routine dental cleanings. But instead of using traditional dental instruments, our team can utilize guided biofilm therapy to get rid of the substance. This approach to cleaning can often be completed in about 30 to 45 minutes.
How Does It Work?
We’ll begin by examining your mouth and checking for any oral health issues that might be developing. Then a special dye will be applied to the teeth that will show us where the biofilm is located; that way, we can see the exact spots that we need to focus on during the cleaning process. (This will also let us know which areas you need to pay closer attention to while you’re brushing.)
After that, we’ll begin the biofilm removal process with special airflow tools. Said tools make use of water, air, and dental powder, which allows for a more comfortable cleaning. On top of that, they can be used to target biofilm that is hiding underneath the gums. During the cleaning, we will also get rid of any tartar that has hardened in place.
At the end of the treatment, we’ll carefully check your teeth to ensure that the biofilm is gone, and we’ll give you any additional instructions that you may need to take better care of your smile at home.
What are Biofilm Therapy's Benefits?
Guided biofilm therapy is a relatively new approach for cleaning teeth, but it already has many advantages worth keeping in mind:
- It is a safe, effective way to get rid of biofilm before it can lead to more severe oral health consequences.
- It is considered gentler than traditional cleaning techniques.
- It gives our team the opportunity to remove any surface stains that may have appeared on your enamel.
- It is often faster than traditional dental cleaning techniques, so you can expect to spend less time in the dental chair.
