Treatments
Hygiene That Protects Your Smile for Life.
Dental Therapist in Edinburgh
Prevention-Focused, Patient-Led, Technologically-Enhanced.
Brushing and flossing at home are essential, but they can only do so much.
Our dental hygiene appointments extend far beyond scaling and polishing. At Integrated Dentalcare, we use Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)—a modern, clinically advanced approach to prevent gum disease, remove damaging bacterial biofilm, and keep your teeth and gums healthy long term.
Clean Isn’t Enough. Biofilm Management Is Everything.
Biofilm is a sticky, bacteria-rich film that coats your teeth and gums every day. If left untreated, it hardens into tartar and triggers inflammation, bleeding, gum disease, bone loss—and eventually tooth loss.
Even the best toothbrush can only remove around 60% of it. Most people miss crucial areas between their teeth and around the gum line.
That’s where professional hygiene therapy comes in. With the right approach, we can:
- Gently remove plaque, biofilm, and tartar
- Prevent and manage gum disease (gingivitis + periodontitis)
- Reduce bad breath and tooth staining
- Support healthier gums around implants or braces
- Detect problems early—before they escalate
What to Expect: Our Step-by-Step Hygiene Journey
At Integrated Dentalcare, our hygiene appointments follow a modern GBT protocol that’s personalised, thorough, and minimally invasive.
1. Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral health history to identify areas of risk, inflammation, or buildup.
2. Biofilm Disclosure (Visualisation)
We apply a plaque-detecting dye to reveal where biofilm has formed, highlighting what you normally cannot see with the naked eye. This guides precision cleaning and helps you see the ‘why’ behind each step.
4. Perioflow® (If Needed)
Used for deeper gum pockets or tricky-to-access areas, especially in patients with gum disease, implants, or orthodontic appliances.
5. Piezon® Ultrasonic Scaling (If Needed)
If any stubborn tartar remains, we use advanced ultrasonic scalers to remove it gently, comfortably and efficiently.
6. Final Check and Personalised Aftercare
We assess your gum health after cleaning and provide clear, personalised advice to help keep your mouth healthy between visits.
Not Just for Adults. Hygiene Care for All Ages.
We welcome patients of all ages, including:
- Children learning how to brush properly
- Teens with braces or aligners
- Adults managing busy schedules
- Patients with complex restorative work or implants
Anyone who wants to keep their mouth as healthy as possible
What Patients Say
Very happy with the professional service I have received over the past few years from the hygienist service within the practice. Excellent advice on brushing and flossing has caused me to change my daily dental hygiene routines and, together with regular cleaning carried out by the hygienists, has meant no dental remedial work has been required for some time. Long may this continue! I would certainly recommend a visit to the hygienist in this practice.
John H.
I have been attending this practice for almost 6 years, and is the best I have been to. Alan, my dentist is very thorough and professional, whilst being friendly, reassuring and providing completely pain free work. The new dental hygiene equipment is excellent, with water sprays instead of cleaning drills. All the staff are very welcoming, efficient and accommodating when any changes needed. Highly recommended.
Maureen F.
My recent Hygiene Therapy experience at Integrated Dentalcare with Sophie using the new GBT Airflow was swift and pain free. The process was fully explained and I was made to feel at ease and comfortable. I am very pleased with the results and would recommend this treatment and practice to others.
Ethelinda L.
Had the new Airflow treatment at my recent hygiene visit and thoroughly recommend it. I am a nervous patient and it was great as didn’t feel any anxiety at the new system, in fact it was much easier to have and comfortable than the standard hygiene cleaning. It’s great that the practice bring in such new technology, making my visits more stress free, and of course helping my oral hygiene.
Kathy H.
I couldn’t be happier with my experience at this dental practice! When I first came in 2022, I had several cavities, bite issues (deep bite), and needed a root canal re-treatment and a crown. Dr. Allan Matthews and his team created a comprehensive treatment plan, including the necessary restoration work and teeth movement using clear aligners. Their attention to detail is remarkable, and they are true experts in their field. The results have been amazing! All the restoration work and teeth movement are now complete, and I realize I was in constant discomfort before due to my unhealthy bite. Now, my bite is much healthier and more functional, and the cosmetic improvement is fantastic. It’s life-changing to be pain-free and proud of my smile. Their hygiene care is excellent, using the latest methods to keep my teeth in great condition. The care and professionalism shown by Dr. Matthews and his team have been exceptional, and I highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for expert dental care!
David Z.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)?
GBT is a modern protocol that targets harmful bacteria and biofilm using visualisation, gentle technology, and precise steps—ideal for prevention and maintenance of oral health in both healthy and high-risk patients.
Is it uncomfortable or painful?
Most patients describe it as gentle and relaxing. Airflow® uses warm water and is very comfortable, even for sensitive patients.
How often should I see a dental therapist?
Every 6 months is typical, but we’ll tailor your plan based on your individual needs, risk level, and oral health goals.
What about children or nervous patients?
GBT is ideal—it’s fast, gentle, and helps build comfort with the dental environment from a young age.
Can this help with gum disease?
Yes. GBT is suitable for both the prevention and treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis, including maintenance after treatment or implant placement.
We Don’t Just Clean Teeth. We Help You Keep Them.
Your mouth is the gateway to your health, and regular hygiene therapy is the foundation of protecting it.
Whether you’re booking your first visit, staying on top of things, or getting back into a routine after time away, we’ll meet you where you are.
Alternatively, you can call us directly on 0131 225 9093.