Have you ever wondered why your teeth feel “furry” in the morning, even though you brushed them thoroughly the night before? The answer lies in a fascinating microscopic world: the dental biofilm.
Most patients are familiar with the term professional teeth cleaning. In modern dentistry, however, we now speak more precisely of biofilm management. This is not a semantic detail, but a true paradigm shift. We are no longer merely removing food debris or surface stains – we are actively controlling a highly complex bacterial ecosystem to prevent disease.
What exactly is Biofilm?
Biofilm is far more than simple “plaque.” It is a highly organised community of billions of bacteria embedded in a protective slime layer known as the matrix.
- The protective shield: This matrix protects bacteria from external attacks – and unfortunately often from toothbrushes and mouthwashes as well.
- Balance matters: As long as the bacterial community remains balanced (symbiosis), the system is stable and harmless.
- When things go wrong: If the biofilm becomes too thick or matures undisturbed in interdental spaces, the balance shifts (dysbiosis). Aggressive bacteria dominate, producing acids that cause tooth decay or toxins that trigger gum inflammation and periodontitis.
Why home care alone is not enough
Even with excellent oral hygiene, toothbrushes and floss reach only about 60–70% of tooth surfaces. The most critical areas – deep gum pockets and narrow interdental spaces – often remain untouched. This is precisely where professional biofilm management becomes essential.
The modern approach: gentle instead of aggressive
In the past, professional cleaning often involved extensive scraping. Today’s approach is different. We follow modern protocols such as Guided Biofilm Therapy, which are maximally gentle on enamel and soft tissues.
1. Diagnosis and Visualisation
We do not guess – we assess precisely. First, the teeth are stained with a special solution.
- The aha moment: Biofilm becomes visible. You can clearly see where cleaning is effective and where individual problem areas remain. This insight is one of the most effective training tools for home care.
2. Air Polishing – The “High-Precision Cleaner”
Instead of starting with scraping instruments, soft biofilm and surface stains (from coffee, tea or smoking) are usually removed first using a controlled stream of air, warm water and an ultrafine powder such as erythritol.
- The advantage: This method reaches everywhere – even below the gum line and into deep niches. It is gentle on the gums and simultaneously polishes the tooth surfaces.
3. Targeted Ultrasonic Cleaning
Only once the biofilm has been removed can we clearly identify remaining hard deposits such as calculus. These are then selectively removed using modern ultrasonic instruments. Because we no longer work “blindly,” this step is usually quicker and far more comfortable than traditional methods.
4. Protection and Control
Finally, the cleaned tooth surfaces are fluoridated. This strengthens the enamel and increases its resistance to future acid attacks.
How Often Is “Often Enough”?
The old rule of “twice a year” may be a reasonable average, but it is not medically appropriate for everyone. The correct interval depends on your individual risk profile:
- Do you have a high caries risk or multiple restorations?
- Do you suffer from diabetes or take medication that reduces saliva flow?
- Do you have dental implants or a history of periodontitis?
Depending on these factors, intervals of three to six months may be advisable. Professional biofilm management is an investment in prevention – your insurance against drilling and tooth loss. One hour today can save years of treatment tomorrow.