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5 Signs of Gum Disease

gum disease, gum health, gingivitis, periodontal disease, dental cleaning, deep cleaning, bad breath, woman in dental chair

Gum health is a crucial yet often overlooked part of our oral well-being. Most oral care products focus on teeth, which makes it easy to forget about our gums. But remember, your gums are an entry point to your entire blood stream. Let’s not wait until gum disease starts causing trouble for your pearly whites. Keep an eye out for these five warning signs:

1. Bleeding Gums

Spotting pink in the sink? Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing, are a red flag for gum disease. If your gums bleed without much fuss, it’s time to chat with your dentist. Better safe than sorry!

2. Swollen or Tender Gums

Feel like your gums are on the sensitive side lately? Swollen or tender gums can be a telltale sign of inflammation. This is often due to pesky bacteria camping out along your gumline. Regular brushing and flossing are great, but sometimes, only a dental cleaning can evict these unwelcome guests.

3. Receding Gums

Receding gums are like a sneak peek into something you don’t want to see – the roots of your teeth. If you spot “black triangles” between your teeth or feel like your teeth look longer, it’s a sign to take action against gum disease.

4. Persistent Bad Breath

Constantly reaching for mints? Chronic bad breath isn’t just awkward; it could be a symptom of gum disease. The culprits? Bacteria throwing a party between your teeth and gums, and trust us, they’re not the guests you want to keep around.

5. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Feeling a wiggle or noticing a shift in your bite? These changes might be signs that gum disease is undermining the very foundations of your teeth. It’s a sign to get things checked out before your smile changes its layout.

Dr. Andrew Lefeber, DDS at our Wilmington – The Pointe location.

Expert Gum Disease Treatment in North Carolina

If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t hesitate to give CarolinasDentist a call. In addition to deep cleanings, we offer nonsurgical therapies for gum disease like Perio Protect and a localized antibiotic treatment called Arestin. We’re armed with expert hygienists and dentists ready to help you maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.

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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.