Scaling, Air Flow, GBT: How are they similar or different?

Scaling, Air Flow and GBT (Guided Biofilm Therapy) are dental cleaning procedures, but each method is different in terms of working principles and results, as follows:

1. Scaling

• Using an ultrasonic scaler or manual scaler
• Removes tartar that adheres to the teeth and under the gums
• May cause tooth sensitivity or slight bleeding, especially in people with gingivitis

2. Air Flow

• Using water-soluble tooth polishing powder (Air Polishing) with water pressure and air
• Removes plaque, tea, coffee and cigarette stains on the surface of the teeth
• Cannot remove hard tartar, suitable for gentle cleaning of the surface of the teeth and between the teeth

3. GBT (Guided Biofilm Therapy)

• This is an oral care guideline developed by EMS (Electro Medical Systems, Switzerland)
• Using erythritol powder to gently remove biofilm and bacterial plaque
• There are complete steps including biofilm staining before cleaning, Air Flow, Perio Flow (for deep gum grooves) and spot scaling.

Less painful and helps prevent gingivitis and tooth decay.

Summary of differences

Implement	Tools	Highlights	What can it be used with?
Scaling	Ultrasonic	Removes hard tartar	Stiff dental plaque
Air Flow	Tooth powder + water + air	Removes tea, coffee and cigarette stains	Dental plaque
GBT	Air Flow + Perio Flow + Scaling	Clean thoroughly, less pain	Biofilm, bacterial plaque, tartar

If you want a deep and gentle cleaning, GBT is a good choice. However, if you want to remove very hard tartar, choose Scaling. Air Flow is suitable for removing non-tartar stains on the tooth surface.