Risk factors and oral hygiene

Regular mechanical removal of biofilm usually helps keep the biofilm in balance—in a symbiotic state. In addition to avoiding risk factors such as poor diet, smoking and stress, good oral hygiene makes a decisive contribution to preventing a transition to dysbiosis. The guidelines on gingivitis prevention (currently undergoing revision) recommend manual or electric toothbrushes supplemented by aids for mechanical interdental cleaning and rinsing solutions.^3, 4These are tailored to the patient’s individual risk, personal needs and manual dexterity.

Toothbrushes are unable to reach interdental spaces. Such areas thus offer ideal local conditions for biofilm to become established and mature. Interproximal biofilm remains after brushing, particularly in the premolar and molar regions.⁵To prevent this, interdental brushes are highly recommended, alongside dental floss for crowded teeth. Professional instruction on how to use both correctly is essential.

Is there such a thing as perfect oral hygiene?

Like other important aspects of life, the key to good oral hygiene is regular training. Disclosing tablets can be part of a plan for effective personal biofilm control. Regular use helps patients learn to identify areas where better cleaning is needed and how best to go about this cleaning. The clinical protocol of GBT includes biofilm disclosure and patient motivation (Steps 2 and 3) as key to changing behaviour on a lasting basis.

Serving also as clinical quality control, this disclosure step is an essential part of professional biofilm management. Only biofilm that is visible—disclosed—is removed in Step 4 of GBT with AIR-FLOWING, employing the AIRFLOW Prophylaxis Master with the AIRFLOW MAX handpiece—which boasts the patented Laminar Flow Technology—and AIRFLOW PLUS powder. Any remaining calculus is removed with the original PIEZON NO PAIN PS or PI MAX instrument (Step 6).⁶

Conclusion

The cornerstones of continued prevention of oral disease are good oral hygiene and the professional management of biofilm and calculus. Both are supported by the best possible control of risk factors as part of systematic professional prophylaxis through GBT.⁷ Individual advice, instruction and encouragement from the practice team help patients become experts in their own daily oral hygiene and thus achieve optimal oral health in the long term.

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