Skip to content

Fight Gum Disease with Perio Protect Therapy

dentist explaining Perio Protect to a patient

Did you know that nearly half of American adults have gum disease? It’s a startling statistic. But, at CarolinasDentist, we’re committed to helping you beat the odds with cutting-edge treatments like Perio Protect® therapy. Whether you’re dealing with early-stage gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, our team across North Carolina is here to help. We can help you regain control of your oral health, no surgery required!

What is Gum Disease?

Before we dive into Perio Protect, it’s important to understand what gum disease is and why it’s so serious. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive condition. It starts with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and can advance to more severe infection. If left untreated, it can potentially leading to tooth loss and other health issues.

The root cause? Bacteria found in plaque and tartar. These bacteria produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth. This creates pockets where more bacteria can accumulate. If this cycle isn’t broken, it can eventually destroy the bone and tissues that support your teeth.

However, the effects of gum disease aren’t just limited to your mouth. Because your gums are an entry point to your bloodstream, the bacteria from gum disease can travel to other parts of your body. This bacteria is linked to serious health conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and respiratory issues. That’s why it’s crucial to tackle gum disease head-on.

What is Perio Protect Therapy?

Perio Protect is a revolutionary, non-surgical treatment designed to combat gum disease. It delivers medication directly where it’s needed most—below the gum line. Using custom-fitted Perio Trays®, this therapy allows you to apply prescription medication right at home. This ensures that the treatment reaches the deep pockets between your gums and teeth, where harmful bacteria thrive.

Here’s how it works:

  • Custom-Fit Trays: During your consultation at CarolinasDentist, we’ll take precise impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays. These trays are designed to comfortably fit over your teeth, delivering medication directly to the gums.

  • Medication Delivery: The trays are used to deliver prescribed medication deep into the periodontal pockets. Further, this medication targets and kills the bacteria causing the infection, helping to reduce inflammation, stop the disease from progressing, and promote healing.

  • Daily Use at Home: The best part about Perio Protect is that it’s incredibly convenient. You can use your Perio Trays at home, allowing you to actively fight gum disease between your regular dental visits.

Benefits of Perio Protect Therapy

Perio Protect offers a range of benefits that make it a preferred choice for many patients battling gum disease:

  • Comfortable & Convenient: Firstly, the custom-fit trays are designed for comfort, and you can use them in the privacy of your home, fitting treatment into your daily routine.

  • Non-Invasive: For many, Perio Protect can reduce the need for more invasive treatments like repeated deep cleanings or periodontal surgery.

  • Improved Overall Health: Treating gum disease with Perio Protect can help reduce your risk for other health issues linked to periodontal bacteria, including heart disease and diabetes.

  • Fresher Breath & Whiter Teeth: As a bonus, Perio Protect not only fights bacteria but can also lead to fresher breath and whiter teeth over time.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Catching gum disease early and treating it promptly is key to preventing it from causing more significant issues down the line. At CarolinasDentist, we stress the importance of regular check-ups and good oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. But when gum disease does develop, Perio Protect offers an effective, minimally invasive solution to help you get your oral health back on track.

Ready to Protect Your Gums?

So, if you’re experiencing symptoms like red, swollen, or bleeding gums, or if you’ve noticed bad breath or loose teeth, don’t wait. These are often signs of gum disease, and the sooner you address it, the better. Contact one of our CarolinasDentist offices across North Carolina today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Perio Protect therapy can help you achieve healthier gums and a brighter future.

Back To Top

Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.