ITP #9 - Unlocking the Power of EMS Systems and GBT in Dental Hygiene

What happens when a seasoned hygienist gets a surprise Christmas gift that transforms her entire clinical approach? 

In this episode of Inside the Practice, host Sarah Boylan chats with Kassie Anderson, a dental hygienist and certified EMS trainer, about her journey into the world of EMS Systems and Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT). 

Their conversation offers a clear, engaging look into how new tools are reshaping the patient and provider experience in dental hygiene.

• What is GBT—and Why It Matters

GBT, or Guided Biofilm Therapy, is a systematic approach to eliminating biofilm with precision and care. 

Kassie breaks it down into eight key steps, from patient assessment to recall recommendations, emphasizing a predictable and patient-friendly process that reduces discomfort while increasing efficacy.

• Airflow vs. Traditional Polishing

Kassie explains how airflow polishing, powered by EMS systems, offers superior access to hard-to-reach areas and a more comfortable experience. 

Unlike the gritty, noisy, and sometimes painful traditional methods, airflow uses warm water and fine erythritol powder to gently clean both supragingival and subgingival areas.

• Training That Makes a Difference

With over 50 dental offices trained, kassie highlights the need for proper education and support when implementing new systems. 

Her six-hour training includes theory and hands-on experience, ensuring that hygienists feel confident using the equipment and maintaining it properly.

• Patient Experience and Education

From disclosing agents that reveal hidden plaque to motivation sessions during the cleaning, GBT isn’t just about cleaning teeth, it's about educating patients. 

Kassie shares how this method builds trust and encourages better oral hygiene without the shame or discomfort.

• Investment and Value

An EMS system setup costs around $16,000 per operatory, which includes equipment, training, and starter materials. 

While it’s a substantial investment, Kassie illustrates how this technology pays off through improved patient outcomes, increased comfort, and reduced burnout for hygienists.

Kassie’s enthusiasm is infectious, and her experience shows that when clinical care is elevated through thoughtful innovation, everyone benefits patients, hygienists, and the practice itself. 

Whether you're a dentist considering the upgrade or a hygienist dreaming of modern tools, this episode offers valuable insights into why GBT might be your next best move.

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