Building on the successes of 2023, Harry Morris explains why it’s time to get on board with guided biofilm therapy (GBT) – a true catalyst for growth in dental practices for 2024.
The preventive aspect of dentistry has witnessed a remarkable transformation in 2023. This is in no small part thanks to the innovative GBT protocol by creator, EMS.
GBT is an evidence-based, indication-orientated, systematic, modular prevention for prophylaxis and a therapy protocol for all dental applications.
The past year has been a testament to the incredible growth opportunities provided by GBT, setting the stage for an even more impressive 2024.
Because of this, EMS strongly encourages dental professionals to embrace this game-changing protocol. This will ensure they are not left behind in this evolving landscape.
To share with you the direction of preventive prophylaxis in the UK, let’s look back at some highlights of 2023.
Zara Shirvani: a pioneer in oral health
Early in 2023, Zara Shirvani, a newly appointed Swiss Dental Academy (SDA) ambassador, was at the forefront with her insightful article on professional and at-home interventions for perimenopausal and menopausal patients.
Her strong belief in the GBT eight-step protocol has revolutionised dental hygiene, offering a non-invasive, gentle, yet highly effective approach. This methodology aligns perfectly with her philosophy of considering the overall health of patients in conjunction with their oral health.
IDS and the Swiss Dental Academy
The Swiss Dental Academy, EMS’s educational arm, made a remarkable impact at IDS in Germany. It delivered hands-on sessions featuring the new GBT training stool. Additionally, the announcement of the GBT Summit world tour in 2023 showcased EMS’s global outreach. The ‘Smile is in the Air’ podcast and social media posts brought IDS 2023 to a worldwide audience.
Christina Chatfield: a decade of direct access
April marked a significant milestone for Christina Chatfield, an award-winning dental hygienist and pioneer of direct access in the UK. Her vision materialised as Dental Health Spa Ltd in Brighton, a hygiene-led oral health care clinic.
To celebrate this achievement, a special day was dedicated to children’s oral health. It highlighted the pain-free and motivating aspects of GBT, especially for young patients. Indeed, Christina, her colleagues and EMS are working hard to raise awareness about the need to get good oral health habits started early.
For child patients, those first impressions are critical and pain-free GBT can be offered to everyone. This effective and comfortable treatment encourages repeat visits and therefore improved oral health. Ultimately this is what we all want for our children.
Anna Middleton: exploring biofilm and systemic health
As summer approached, award-winning dental hygienist Anna Middleton delved into the interaction between biofilm and overall body health. She highlighted the potential links between oral biofilm and diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. This area of study is rapidly evolving, offering insights into preventive dentistry and modern therapies.
In line with this, Anna stated that GBT represents a paradigm shift in dental hygiene. As an evidence-based biofilm-removing protocol, it will no doubt earn its place in the evolution of preventive oral care. More and more dental professionals and patients are becoming aware of what can be achieved in the right hands.
EMS’ GBT Summit in Manchester
The GBT Summit in Manchester – part of the World Tour – was a landmark event, bringing together international experts to share knowledge on preventive dentistry. Held at the Science and Industry Museum in September, it focused on enhancing the skillset of dental professionals and supporting preventive efforts.
Attendees were able to touch base with renowned international speakers to get the latest scientific findings in oral prophylaxis. They were able to profit first-hand from the exchange of ideas with other dental experts and immerse themselves fully in the incredible world of GBT.
Dr Victoria Sampson: celebrating a milestone
Also in September, Dr Victoria Sampson celebrated 10 years of direct access with an open day at The Health Society near Mayfair. Influencers with a significant following participated helped to educate a vast audience on the importance of oral health.
Building on this evidence base, Victoria has found GBT to have an impressive impact on the oral microbiome. It not only mechanically removes the biofilm and calculus but is also thought to modify the oral microbiome chemically.
As for the GBT protocol itself, it uses an airflow technology that is impregnated with erythritol, a chemical that has been shown to be antibacterial, anticariogenic and anti-adherence. This means that it not only helps to remove the bacteria present in the oral cavity but also supports recolonisation of a healthy, balanced microbiome after the appointment.
EMS’ new eBook: 100 incredible cases
December saw the release of the 100 GBT Clinical Cases eBook. This new edition builds upon the success of two previous editions, offering a fresh collection of clinical cases that demonstrate the continued impact of the GBT protocol.
Explore a wide range of clinical cases from renowned dental professionals around the globe. From North America to Europe, Asia to Australia, this eBook provides a global perspective on the transformative power of GBT. Explore the versatility of the prophylaxis protocol across various dental scenarios.
Underlining the level of comfort that the GBT protocol offers patients, each case includes the patient’s feedback following treatment.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference in your practice. Simply download your copy free of charge at www.ems-dental.com/en/100-gbt-clinical-cases-new-edition for immediate inspiration.
GBT Masterclass: combining theory and practice
Last but by no means least, throughout the year, the GBT Masterclass stood out as a full-day event that blended theoretical knowledge with practical strategies for periodontal and implant maintenance.
The spotlight was on components like AirFlow, PerioFlow, and the advanced ‘No Pain’ Piezon technology, including the new Piezon PI Max tip. These sessions were instrumental in combining theoretical insights with hands-on experience.
Event dates for the first quarter of 2024 include:
- 20 January with Anna Middleton in London
- 27 January with Kayley McCauly in Bristol
- 10 February with Louise Warden in Glasgow
- 2 March with Claire Berry in Leeds
- 15 March with Anna Middleton in London
- 23 March with Sally Simpson in Manchester.
Visit www.swissdentalacademy.com/en/courses-en for further details and to book your place.
Embracing the future of dental care
As we look towards 2024, it is clear that GBT is not just a protocol, but a movement in the dental world. It offers a comprehensive approach to oral health care, emphasising non-invasive techniques, patient education, and overall health awareness.
Dental professionals are encouraged to embrace these advancements and integrate GBT into their practices to stay at the forefront of dental care innovation.
The time to get on board is now – to ensure a future where dental care is not predominantly about treating problems but rather preventing them with advanced, patient-friendly technologies.
For further information, in the first instance please visit www.ems-dental.com.
