Root canal treatment has been found to reduce inflammation that leads to heart disease and improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels in a new study.
The King’s College London study tracked changes in the blood chemistry of 65 patients following root canal treatment for apical periodontitis. This common dental infection can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation which can affect heart health and the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.
During the study, successful root canal treatment was linked to:
- Improved glucose metabolism, with blood sugar levels still significantly reduced more than two years after the root canal
- Better lipid profiles including short-term improvements in cholesterol and fatty acid levels
- Reduced inflammation, often linked to cardiovascular risk and other chronic conditions
- A body-wide relationship to oral bacteria: bacteria from infected teeth were found to change the body’s overall metabolism.
‘Root canal treatment doesn’t just improve oral health’
Lead author and senior clinical lecturer in endodontology Dr Sadia Niazi: ‘Our findings show that root canal treatment doesn’t just improve oral health – it may also help reduce the risk of serious 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 fats levels – raising the risk of serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes. It is vital that dental professionals recognise the wider impact of these root canal infections and advocate for early diagnosis and treatment.’
Towards integrated care
The researchers used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to analyse molecules in the blood of patients from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
They determined that similar monitoring of blood content following root canal surgery could ‘help assess recovery and risk after dental treatment’.
The King’s team also advocated for a more holistic approach to dentistry. Dr Niazi said: ‘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.’
The study was published in the Journal of Translational Medicine with funding from the Faculty of Dental Surgery of the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) England.
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