If you’re dealing with gum disease and worried about painful procedures or expensive surgeries, a new home-based therapy can help you fight back without going under the knife.
When it comes to gum disease, most people assume the only solutions are deep cleanings, antibiotics, or surgery. But that’s no longer the case today.
Holistic dentists, such as those at Denver Dentistry, report that a growing number of patients are successfully managing gum disease using Perio Protect, a minimally invasive, at-home therapy.
Many people overlook gum disease until it starts causing major issues, like loose teeth or visible gum recession. But the real danger is often what you don’t see.
Gum disease has been linked to a long list of systemic health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even certain cancers. That’s because inflammation and bacteria in the mouth don’t stay localized; they can enter the bloodstream and affect organs throughout the body.
Nearly 60% of adults over 65 are dealing with some level of gum disease, according to the CDC. And while standard dental care helps, many patients find that inflammation and pocket depth return unless they change how they treat the issue between visits.
In many dental offices, patients with moderate to severe gum disease face one of two paths:
Both can be uncomfortable, costly, and time-consuming. And while effective in the short term, they don’t always offer a lasting solution, especially if patients struggle to keep bacteria from re-entering the gums post-treatment.
So, more dentists, like Dr. Guy Grabiak of Denver Dentistry, now combine cleanings with targeted antimicrobial treatment, creating a two-pronged approach to long-term gum health.
Perio Protect is a system that uses custom-fit trays to deliver an antimicrobial gel deep beneath the gums, right into the periodontal pockets where traditional brushing and flossing can’t reach.
Unlike surgery or painful deep cleanings, the trays are worn at home for just a few minutes a day. The trays hold a special hydrogen peroxide-based gel against the gums, where it kills harmful bacteria and reduces inflammation.
It’s minimally invasive, comfortable, and easy to use, making it an appealing option for people who’ve struggled with gum issues for years.
If you're managing chronic gum disease or just looking to avoid it in the first place, a holistic approach to dental care can offer deeper insight into how oral health connects with your overall well-being.
Holistic dentists emphasize prevention and root-cause treatment, rather than symptom control alone. This means examining factors such as sleep quality, diet, inflammation, and even breathing patterns that can impact the health of your gums and teeth over time.
For example, someone with persistent gum inflammation might benefit from a therapy like Perio Protect, but also from addressing other contributing issues, like mouth breathing, sleep apnea, or systemic inflammation, all of which have been shown to impact gum disease progression.
Functional dentistry may also involve using mercury-safe protocols, biocompatible materials, and techniques that support your body’s healing process. These methods aim to reduce toxic burden, avoid triggering immune reactions, and support sustainable oral health for the long term.
Gum disease doesn’t have to lead straight to surgery. With treatments like Perio Protect, you have more options than ever to take control of your oral health, safely, naturally, and without daily discomfort.