When successful, root canal treatment can significantly reduce inflammation, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. This promising research from King’s College London suggests that such improvements could lead to a reduced risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, offering hope for improved health outcomes
The implications of this research are profound. Successful root canal treatment, as suggested by the study, could not only save teeth but also significantly lower inflammation, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce blood sugar levels. This could potentially cut the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
The study was published in the Journal of Translational Medicine.
First-of-its-kind research into the impact of root canal treatment
Root canal treatment, a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that is severely damaged or infected, involves several steps. The dentist first removes the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, then cleans and disinfects the root canals, and finally fills and seals them. To restore the tooth’s strength and function, a crown is usually placed over it.
In the first-of-its-kind research, a clinical study tracked changes in blood chemistry following root canal treatment for a common dental infection. The infection can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and increase inflammation, posing risks to cardiac health and reducing the ability to control blood sugar levels.
The researchers followed 65 patients from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust over two years after root canal treatment. Scientists analysed molecules in patients’ blood to reveal how the body processes sugar, fat, and other key substances, and how it responds to disease and treatment. They used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to analyse proteins in the body.
Improved health outcomes after root canal treatment
The team found that successful root canal treatment was associated with:
- Improved glucose metabolism: Blood sugar levels dropped significantly over two years after treatment.
- Better lipid profiles: Short-term improvements in blood cholesterol and fatty acid levels.
- Reduced inflammation: Key markers of inflammation reduced over time.
- Oral bacteria linked to body-wide effects: Bacteria are associated with changes in the body’s metabolism.
Lead Author Dr Sadia Niazi, Senior Clinical Lecturer in Endodontology, King’s College London, said: “Our findings show that root canal treatment doesn’t just improve oral health – it may also help reduce the risk of severe health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. It’s a powerful reminder that oral health is deeply connected to overall health.
“Long-standing root canal infections can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, trigger inflammation, and increase blood glucose and fat levels – raising the risk of serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Dental professionals must recognise the broader impact of these root canal infections and advocate for early diagnosis and treatment.
“We also need to move towards integrated care, where dentists and general practitioners work together to monitor the risks through these blood markers and protect overall health. It’s time to move beyond the tooth and embrace a truly holistic approach to dental care.”
