Effects of Ginsenosides on Periodontal and Orthodontic Gingivitis

Abstract

After orthodontic treatment, gingivitis can cause swelling, pain, bleeding, and other symptoms, which significantly compromise gum health and reduce the quality of life. Clinically, dental plaque removal is considered an effective treatment strategy for gingivitis. However, controlling plaque formation for an extended period through mechanical removal is challenging. Current treatment options include Western medicine treatment and drug nursing, but solely relying on Western medicine antibiotics does not effectively prevent gum inflammation and damage in the long run. Additionally, the withdrawal of medication results in a high recurrence rate of up to 30%, which negatively impacts prognosis. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, gingivitis belongs to the category of “dental declaration”. The main syndrome identified is incandescence of stomach fire, characterized by manifestations such as burning gingiva, bleeding, swelling, and pain caused by weakened fire and inflammation. The pathogenesis is closely related to the fluctuations in kidney qi and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment focuses on clearing stomach and purging fire. Glycyrrhiza Xiexin Decoction contains ginseng, Radix glycyrrhiza, coptis and other traditional Chinese medicines. These drugs contain active ingredients, such as ginsenosides, which have been proven antibacterial effects and the ability to regulate neutrophils and lymphocytes, participate in anti-inflammatory and immune responses, and enhance overall immunity. Clinical trials have demonstrated that the application of glycyrrhiza Xiexin decoction in orthodontic gingivitis significantly enhances clinical efficacy, improves the periodontal status and inflammatory response of patients, reduces the pain of patients, and lowers the recurrence rate. The active ingredients in glycyrrhiza Xiexin decoction, including ginsenosides, effectively reduce the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and nitric oxide (NO), exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, this study suggests that the active ingredients in glycyrrhiza Xiexin decoction have a significant impact on periodontal health and inflammatory factors in patients with orthodontic gingivitis.