Treating an infected tooth with a successful root canal procedure may do more than relieve pain. New research suggests it could also help reduce inflammation linked to heart disease while improving blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

In a first-of-its-kind clinical study, researchers at King’s College London examined changes in patients’ blood chemistry after treatment for Apical periodontitis, a common dental infection.

The infection occurs when bacteria invade the root of a tooth and the surrounding tissue. If left untreated, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, trigger inflammation and potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disease while also affecting the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.

Although earlier studies have linked dental infections with broader health problems, this research is among the first to investigate whether successful root canal treatment can produce measurable improvements in heart and metabolic health.

Root canal infections can allow bacteria to spread into the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and increasing the risk of conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Treating the infection effectively appears to reduce these risks.

The researchers found that successful root canal treatment was associated with improved blood sugar control. Over the two years following treatment, patients showed a significant decline in blood glucose levels—an important factor in reducing the risk of developing diabetes.

Short-term improvements were also observed in blood cholesterol and circulating fatty acids, both of which are key indicators of heart health. In addition, markers of inflammation—often associated with cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions—gradually decreased after treatment.

The study also found that microbes originating from infected teeth were linked to measurable changes in the body’s metabolic processes, suggesting that dental infections can influence overall health beyond the mouth.

Published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, the research followed 65 patients treated at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust over two years after undergoing root canal therapy.

Scientists analysed molecules in the patients’ blood to better understand how the body processes sugar, fats and other substances, as well as how it responds to disease and treatment.

Lead author Sadia Niazi, Senior Clinical Lecturer in Endodontology at King’s College London, said the findings highlight the strong link between oral health and overall well-being.

“It’s a powerful reminder that oral health is deeply connected to overall health,” she said. “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 conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.”

She added that dental professionals should recognise the broader health implications of untreated dental infections and emphasise early diagnosis and treatment.

While further studies involving larger populations are needed, the research opens new avenues for understanding how good oral care may contribute to better overall health. (Nigerian Tribune)