Root canal treatment may lower heart disease and diabetes risk

Root canal treatment reduces inflammation linked to heart disease and improves blood sugar and cholesterol, suggesting lower diabetes risk, research shows.

A study tracking blood chemistry changes in 65 patients following treatment for apical periodontitis (a common infection at the tooth root tip) found significant improvements in metabolic health markers.

Successful treatment was linked to improved glucose metabolism, with blood sugar levels remaining significantly reduced more than two years after the procedure.

Patients also showed better lipid profiles, including short-term improvements in cholesterol and fatty acid levels.

Researchers from King’s College London used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to analyse blood molecules in patients from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.

Apical periodontitis allows bacteria from infected teeth to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation that can affect heart health and the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. The study found these oral bacteria changed the body’s overall metabolism.

Dr Sadia Niazi, lead author and senior clinical lecturer in endodontology, said: “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.”

The research team found that monitoring blood content following root canal surgery could help assess recovery and risk after dental treatment.

The King’s team advocated a more integrated approach to dental care, with dentists and general practitioners working together to monitor health risks through blood markers.

Dr Niazi added: “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.”