The Guided Biofilm Therapy Notes Template
A guided biofilm therapy (GBT) notes template captures the structured biofilm-focused periodontal visit — disclosure-based plaque assessment, supra- and subgingival Airflow application, Piezon subgingival instrumentation for pockets ≥4mm, tailored oral hygiene instruction, fluoride application, and recall — meeting BSP/EFP PMPR principles and CGDent record-keeping standards.
GBT is a structured EMS protocol — without documentation of disclosure, biofilm management, and recall justification, it looks like a cosmetic clean. Below is the template UK practitioners paste into their PMS to make GBT auditable as a true periodontal service.
Download the free Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) template — plain text, GDC/FGDP(UK)-aligned.
Why this guided biofilm therapy (gbt) template wins
- Disclosure-based plaque score — quantifies biofilm visually for patient AND audit. Differentiates GBT from "polish" cleans.
- GBT protocol steps documented in order — proves the structured protocol was followed, not a cosmetic clean.
- Pre and post disclosure scores — quantifies effectiveness.
- Pocket-depth-specific instrumentation (Perioflow ≥5mm, Piezon PS ≥4mm) — defensible technique selection.
- Powder type specified per area — EMS protocol-aligned (Plus for biofilm, Perio for subgingival, Comfort for sensitive).
Compliance: the medico-legal angle
- BSP/EFP PMPR principles — GBT is a delivery method for evidence-based PMPR.
- CGDent record-keeping — periodontal records must show biofilm assessment + management + recall.
- GDC Principle 4 — clinical record sufficient to demonstrate care was periodontal, not cosmetic.
- EMS protocol fidelity — if delivering branded GBT, documenting protocol steps is the audit defence.
Common mistakes UK dentists make
- No disclosure score — GBT without disclosure is just polishing; defeats the protocol's evidence base.
- BPE not recorded — GBT framework requires periodontal assessment first.
- Subgingival instrumentation not pocket-depth-justified — over-instrumentation of healthy sites.
- No recall justification — looks like a cosmetic frequency rather than disease-tied interval.
- Documenting as "hygiene" with no GBT protocol detail — undermines the clinical value claim.
Frequently asked questions
Is GBT just a brand for normal hygiene?
GBT is EMS's structured periodontal protocol using their Airflow + Piezon systems. The underlying principles (disclosure, biofilm-focused, minimally-invasive subgingival instrumentation) are evidence-based and align with BSP/EFP PMPR. The "brand" is the protocol structure + EMS equipment. Documenting the steps proves the clinical service.
Why disclosure score?
Quantifies biofilm distribution objectively. Patient sees their own plaque, you measure pre/post effectiveness, and the record demonstrates the periodontal assessment (not just a polish). BSP CPG emphasises measurable outcomes — disclosure score is one.
Airflow powders — when to use which?
Plus (erythritol, fine): supragingival biofilm removal, sensitive teeth. Comfort (sodium bicarbonate): sub-marginal up to 5mm pockets. Perio (glycine): subgingival ≥5mm pockets via Perioflow nozzle — minimally invasive deep cleaning. Powder choice is part of the protocol.
Does GBT replace ultrasonic + hand scaling?
Modifies it. The protocol uses Airflow for biofilm + Piezon PS (slim ultrasonic tip) for subgingival instrumentation. Heavy calculus may still need conventional ultrasonic or hand scalers. Document as needed.
Is GBT NHS-billable?
GBT as a service is private. The underlying periodontal assessment + PMPR is NHS-billable under Band 1/2 depending on extent. Document the clinical procedure (PMPR) for NHS purposes; document GBT-specific aspects for private service value.
How often for SPC?
Same intervals as any SPC — 3-6 months based on disease stability and risk factors. Don't use GBT branding to justify shorter intervals without clinical rationale.