300 - Short-Term Effects of Guided-Biofilm-Therapy Assessed by Clinical and Digital Methods

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the short-term clinical outcomes of air polishing with erythritol using 3D-intraoral-scanner for planimetric plaque measurement and monitoring.

Methods: A healthy 12-year-old boy with a high plaque score according to Silness and Loe Plaque index(PI) was evaluated. Prior to Guided-Biofilm-Therapy (GBT) (EMS; Switzerland) dental plaque was disclosed (EMS; Switzerland) and recorded using 3D-intraoral-scanner (iTero Lumina, Align Technology, USA). The percentage of plaque-covered surface area (P%) relative to the total tooth surface area was calculated using specially programmed software area analysis (Image J) based on 3D scanner images of the oral and vestibular surfaces of the four maxillary anterior teeth. Professional plaque removal was performed in accordance with the GBT concept using air polishing with erythritol powder. Oral hygiene instructions were provided to the child. Clinical assessments were conducted before GBT, immediately after treatment, and at the 2- and 4-week follow-ups, with plaque evaluated using the plaque index (PI).

Results: Following GBT, PI decreased from 3 at baseline to 1 after GBT and remained stable at 2 and 4 weeks. Based on 3D scanner images, the plaque-covered surface area decreased from 72.5% to 6.5% (91.0% reduction), remaining low at follow-up with P% of approximately 10% at 2 weeks and 18% at 4 weeks.

Conclusion: 3D intraoral scans demonstrated post-brushing plaque reduction and site-specific patterns, while erythritol air polishing within GBT achieved a rapid and sustained short-term decrease in plaque, supporting its use in children and the suitability of 3D scans for plaque monitoring.