EMS Airflow® Technology

Minimally invasive teeth cleaning in Brisbane

Visiting your dentist for a comprehensive check-up and clean is an important part of maintaining good oral health, but we know that some people find the experience uncomfortable.

That's why at Face Value Dental we've introduced EMS Airflow® technology. This advanced system uses guided biofilm therapy (GBT) to offer a gentler clean for sensitive teeth and gums.

This innovative dental technology is now available at all five of our clinics, including Bupa Dental Brisbane, Albany Creek, Toowong and Helensvale. Get in touch with your local clinic to find out more.

What is guided biofilm therapy (GBT)?

Dental biofilm, commonly known as plaque, is the yellowish layer of bacteria that can build up on teeth over time and cause problems such as tooth decay and gum disease^[1]. Keeping plaque under control is an important part of preventive dental care.^[2]

Good oral hygiene can prevent most plaque from forming, but even with regular brushing and flossing, some biofilm may still remain. Over time this can harden into calculus, which needs to be removed by a dental professional.

The traditional teeth cleaning procedure uses vibrating ultrasonic instruments to remove plaque deposits from the teeth. This can sometimes be painful for people with sensitive teeth and gums, who may delay or avoid dental visits due to the uncomfortable experience. Traditional teeth polishing uses rubber cups and brushes to help remove stains from the teeth, which some people find leaves an unpleasant feeling in their mouth.

Guided biofilm therapy (GBT) using the EMS Airflow® system is a new approach to teeth cleaning and polishing that's less invasive and can in turn improve the overall patient experience. This treatment can be tailored according to individual needs and different age groups to offer the most comfortable and efficient cleaning possible.

How does EMS Airflow® work?

EMS Airflow® guided biofilm therapy uses a combination of air, warm water and ultrafine powder to help remove plaque, calculus and certain stains from tooth surfaces. Your dentist or hygienist will explain what the process involves so you can decide if it's the right choice for you.

We'll first complete a comprehensive dental assessment to identify any specific problems that need to be addressed. We'll then rinse your mouth using a mouthwash and apply a coloured dye to your teeth to see where plaque is present. If we think you need to improve your oral hygiene, we can discuss your brushing and flossing techniques, your diet and other factors that may be putting your oral health at risk.

We can then begin cleaning and polishing your teeth and other parts of your mouth using EMS Airflow® instruments to remove plaque and calculus. Although these instruments won't contact your teeth directly, you may feel a light sensation from the air and water. We can also apply powder to help remove or reduce stains from the enamel.

We'll then perform a final check for any remaining biofilm or calculus and apply fluoride to your teeth.

What are the advantages of EMS Airflow® technology?

We recommend EMS Airflow® guided biofilm therapy if you find traditional teeth cleaning methods uncomfortable or you have dental anxiety. This minimally invasive approach delivers a high standard of cleaning in less time and involves less direct contact with dental instruments.

This technology was developed in line with European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) recommendations on Professional Mechanical Plaque Removal (PMPR) and Oral Hygiene Instructions (OHI) for Home Care of the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP).

What are the risks?

EMS Airflow® technology greatly reduces the need to use traditional hand instruments during cleaning and polishing treatments, however these may still be required to remove tougher calculus deposits from some teeth. Your dentist or hygienist will make sure you understand the risks so you can make an informed decision.

Want to know more about minimally invasive teeth cleaning in Brisbane? Call our team today on (07) 3221 0677 today! For more information or to make an appointment, contact us.

Read more oral health advice in our clinic by reading our blog.

[1] Darby M L, Walsh M M. Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice. 2010
[2] Thomson WM, Williams SM, et al. Long-term Dental Visiting Patterns and Adult Oral Health. Journal of Dental Research. 2010: vol. 89(3); 307-311