Root canals may lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, study finds

The dreaded root canal may be necessary for good oral health, but it could also potentially reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar and cholesterol, according to a new study.

Researchers from King’s College London followed 65 patients who underwent successful root canals for a common dental infection for two years and analyzed molecules in their blood to reveal how their bodies process sugar, fat and other important substances and respond to disease and treatment.

According to the study published Nov. 18 in the Journal of Translational Medicine, scientists found that blood sugar levels in root canal patients drop significantly, which is an important factor in reducing the risk of diabetes. They also saw short-term improvements in cholesterol and fatty acid levels, which are closely linked to heart health.

TREATMENT OF DENTAL DISEASE MAY REDUCE THE RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE, STUDY SUGGESTIONS

Key markers of inflammation, which are often linked to cardiovascular risk and other chronic conditions, also decreased over time.

Lead author Dr Peters, senior clinical lecturer in endodontology at King’s College London. “What surprised us most was how far-reaching the benefits were,” Sadia Niazi told Fox News Digital. “We expected improvements in oral health, but the systemic changes were striking.”

The findings are a reminder that oral health is “deeply linked to overall health,” Niazi said.

“Our findings show that root canal treatment not only improves oral health, but may also help reduce the risk of serious health problems such as diabetes and heart disease,” he added.

SCIENTISTS DISCOVERED THAT A FRUIT-BASED INGREDIENT MAY HELP FIGHT GUM DISEASE NATURALLY

Studies have shown that gum disease is linked to higher inflammation in the body and a higher risk of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease; but most studies show a relationship rather than direct evidence of cause and effect. While experts are increasingly aware that untreated dental infections can affect overall health, the connection between root canals and heart and metabolic health has been understudied until now, according to researchers.

Dentists recommend routine checkups to catch infections early, an important step in maintaining oral health and overall health. (iStock)

They say bacteria entering the blood can lead to inflammation, heart disease and an increased risk of diabetes, but treatment can reduce this risk and metabolic markers should be monitored after receiving treatment.

“It is vital that dentists recognize the broader impact of these root canal infections and advocate for early diagnosis and treatment,” Niazi said. “There is nothing better than saving your own teeth and protecting your systemic health in the process.”

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He added that it’s important to move toward a more integrated model of care, where dentists and doctors collaborate to track blood markers and maintain patients’ overall health.

Treating mouth infections can help protect your heart and metabolic health. (iStock)

The study, funded by the Faculty of Dental Surgery of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, was small and did not include a separate control group. Other factors may also have influenced the results, the researchers said. They noted that larger studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Houston-based dentist and co-founder of Riven Oral Care, Dr. Fatima Khan said a control group was needed to strengthen the findings and prove that other variables did not influence the results. Long-term studies from Harvard University have found that people with poor oral health, gum disease, or tooth loss have a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, but other factors such as smoking and access to care make this link inconclusive.

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Kahn, who was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital that gum disease can worsen diabetes by triggering inflammation and insulin resistance, and that people with poor blood sugar control are more prone to gum disease.

Experts say bleeding or swollen gums can be a sign of gum disease and should be checked by a dentist. (iStock)

However, King’s College London’s research is further evidence that the mouth is “the gateway to your oral and overall health,” he said.

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“See your dentist routinely to detect dental problems before they progress,” Khan advised. “This will help your teeth and overall health.”