Over 50 percent of Americans over thirteen years old suffer from some form of gum disease. Gum disease can lead to tooth decay and, if not treated, to the complete loss of teeth. In its mild stage, gum dis­ease is called gingivitis, which simply denotes inflammation of the gums. More severe gum disease, characterized by plaque buildup, is called periodontal disease. About 45 percent of people over sixty suf­fer from some form of periodontal disease. Heart attack and pancreatic cancer have been linked to periodontal disease-the bacteria that infect the gums can also irritate the walls of the arteries and induce clot for­mation, leading to heart disease. Infection and inflammation can also cause an increase in stomach acid production, and the bacteria can produce carcinogens such as nitrosamine in the mouth, which can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Brushing your teeth and flossing protect against periodontal disease to some degree, but regular visits to your dentist are essential for maintaining gum health. Tooth and gum pain; red, shiny, bleeding gums; receding gums; visible plaque between the teeth; and loose teeth are all symptoms of gum disease. Severe gum disease often requires periodontal surgery, causing much grief and suffering.

The gums are an extension of the digestive system, and in Chinese medicine they reflect the condition of the stomach-spleen-pancreas network. Gum disease is caused by excess heat in the stomach due to improper diet or lifestyle or emotional stress. Our treatments focus on nourishing the digestive system, cooling the heat-which translates into inflammation or infection-and educating my patients on proper diet, lifestyle, and stress management.