‘Spit don’t rinse’ – Managing a dysbiotic biofilm

What to expect 

This webinar, delivered by Laura Bailey and Ben Tighe will enhance the dental team's understanding of evidence-based approaches to managing plaque biofilm, including the role of oral hygiene interventions, chemotherapeutic mouthrinses, and contemporary fluoride recommendations in supporting patient outcomes.

Learning objectives

• Describe the relationship between dysbiotic plaque biofilm, gingivitis, and periodontitis, and recognise the burden of periodontal disease within the adult population

• Discuss the principles of evidence-based biofilm management and the role of mechanical plaque control, including toothbrushing and interdental cleaning, in maintaining periodontal health

• Explain current BSP and European S3 guideline recommendations regarding the adjunctive use of chemotherapeutic mouthrinses in periodontal care

• Evaluate the evidence supporting the use of essential oils, chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and fluoride-containing mouthrinses as adjuncts to mechanical plaque control

• Interpret the current evidence underpinning the Spit Don’t Rinse with Water recommendation and its application

• Apply contemporary preventive advice to support personalised patient recommendations for oral hygiene, fluoride use, and long-term periodontal maintenance

Development outcomes 

A, C and D

Meet the speaker

Laura Bailey

Laura graduated with a first class BSc (hons) degree as a dental therapist from Manchester University in 2013. Since, she has been working in private practice for 10 years in Richmond. Laura is a progressive therapist keen to develop her full scope of practice and has recently graduated with distinction from a PG Dip in restorative and aesthetic dentistry. She is passionate about the relationships she has with her patients and wants to inspire other therapists to take the plunge and do more of what they love. She has also grown a social media following of over 170k followers and educates them on all dental things.

Ben Tighe

Ben is a tutor dental therapist at the prestigious Eastman Dental Hospital alongside working in private practice. Ben is a trainer for the Swiss Dental Academy and lectures across the UK on guided biofilm therapy and has specific clinical interests in the treatment of peri-implant disease and the systemic effects of oral biofilm on the body. These clinical interests along with his enthusiasm for education inspired his Instagram persona @thegumsguy.