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Perio Protect Therapy in North Carolina

High-Quality Periodontal Prevention and Treatment Services

Periodontal disease is a progressive disease that if left untreated, may cause tooth loss. Some patients may notice inflammation and irritation of the gingival tissues which surround and support the teeth. The bacterial infection, or the root problem of the inflammation, is the build-up of toxins found in plaque, which can create an ongoing bacterial infection.

Prompt treatment by a periodontist can help reverse the inflammation (known as gingivitis). Without proper treatment by a periodontist, the infection may continue to progress, leading to possible tooth loss. It’s important to note that in some cases, bacterial infection can travel to other areas of the body via the bloodstream.

Although genetic and environmental factors may be involved in the onset of gum disease, the risk of developing periodontitis can be reduced by taking important preventive measures.

At CarolinasDentist, we offer a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment for gum disease called Perio Protect®.

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Treating Your Gums with Perio Protect®

A healthy mouth is more than just a fantastic smile. Your gums need care, too. Gum disease has been linked to a variety of other health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. If you have red, swollen, bleeding, or receding gums (or if you have bad breath or loose teeth), then you may have gum disease.

Perio Protect® Gum Disease Treatment

Are you battling gingivitis or full-blown periodontal disease? At CarolinasDentist, we offer Perio Protect, a revolutionary way to treat gum disease that doesn’t always require surgery. Ready to get your oral health back on track? Contact our office to set up your gum consultation!

The Truth About Gum Disease

80% of Americans have gum disease. While this dental issue may fall by the wayside for some people, if left untreated, it can have negative effects on your smile and your overall health. Gums are an entry point directly to your bloodstream. The same pathogens that cause gum disease are also linked to a variety of other illnesses. That’s why it’s crucial to treat gum disease as soon as possible to prevent more serious health issues, such as tooth loss, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, respiratory disease, and more.

What is Perio Protect?

Perio Protect uses custom-fitted, retainer-like Perio Trays® to deliver prescribed gum disease medication below the gum line. Perio Protect will combat your gum disease while you’re in the comfort of your own home! During your consultation, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to send to an off-site lab where they’ll fabricate your custom trays. When they’re complete, we’ll also send you home with a prescription for your medication and a detailed set of instructions to help you get the most out of each treatment. Perio Protect can reduce the need for repetitive scaling and root planing treatments, as well as help you avoid surgery altogether. However, for patients with more advanced gum disease, surgery may not be avoidable. When this happens, Perio Protect is a great product to use in conjunction with periodontal surgery to keep infection and bacteria at bay.

Benefits of Perio Protect

    • Better Overall Health
    • Comfortable & Convenient
    • Easy to Use Treatment
    • Fresher Breath
    • Reduced Risk for Many Diseases
    • Whiter Teeth

What are my other gum treatment options?

 

In addition to Perio Protect, Arestin® antibiotic is a locally applied medication used to help treat periodontal (gum) disease right at the source of infection. After a deep cleaning procedure such as scaling and root planing, your dentist may place Arestin directly into the periodontal pockets around affected teeth. These tiny spheres release medication slowly over time, targeting harmful bacteria below the gumline where brushing and flossing can’t reach. The main difference is that Arestin is applied once in-office, making it a convenient option for some patients.

Between Visits to Your Family Dentist

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining excellent oral health and hygiene. Regular checkups allow our team at CarolinasDentist to diagnose potential problems, but these visits are not a fix-all solution.

Periodontal disease (also called gum disease and periodontitis) is the leading cause of tooth loss in the developed world and is completely preventable in the vast majority of cases. Between visits, thorough oral homecare routines with daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash should be practiced to avoid potential dental problems like periodontal disease.

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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.