Root Canals: More Than Oral Health
- Alex Gomes
- Nov 22, 2025
- 3 min read
A new study from King’s College London reveals that root canal treatment, well known for eliminating dental infections, may offer far-reaching benefits for overall health.
Researchers examined patients suffering from apical periodontitis, a common infection that occurs when bacteria reach the tissues surrounding the root of a tooth. Beyond pain and discomfort, this condition allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, increasing inflammation and raising risks related to heart health and metabolic disorders.
Although experts have long suspected a connection between oral health and systemic diseases, the impact of successful root canal therapy on heart and metabolic health had not been clearly understood - until now.
What the Study Found: Benefits Beyond Oral Health
By tracking 65 patients from Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust for two years after root canal treatment, researchers uncovered striking improvements in key markers of overall health:
Better glucose metabolism
Participants showed a significant decrease in blood sugar levels over the two-year follow-up period an important factor in preventing diabetes and improving metabolic stability.
2. Improved lipid profiles
Short-term improvements in cholesterol and fatty acid levels were observed, both of which are closely linked to cardiovascular health.
3. Reduced systemic inflammation
Inflammatory markers associated with chronic disease and cardiovascular risk decreased gradually after the procedure.
4. Oral bacteria linked to body-wide metabolic changes
The study also found that bacteria originating from infected teeth were associated with changes in the body’s overall metabolism, strengthening the case for the mouth–body connection.
“The Mouth Speaks to the Body,” Researchers Say
Lead author Sadia Niazi, senior clinical lecturer in endodontology at King’s College London, emphasized that root canal therapy provides benefits far beyond resolving pain or infection:
“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.”
To reach these insights, researchers used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, a highly advanced method that analyzes molecules in the blood related to sugar processing, fat metabolism and the body’s overall response to disease and healing.
Tracking Blood Markers Could Transform Dental Care
The team suggests that monitoring blood markers, such as glucose, triglycerides and the amino acid tryptophan—could help evaluate recovery and detect systemic risks following dental treatment.
Niazi adds:
“Long-standing root canal infections allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, trigger inflammation, and raise blood sugar and fat levels. This increases the risk of serious health issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential.”
Toward a More Integrated Approach to Healthcare
The study strengthens the call for integrated care, encouraging closer collaboration between dentists and medical practitioners. By working together to track metabolic markers, health professionals can better protect patients from long-term systemic complications.
As Niazi highlights:
“It’s time to look beyond the tooth and embrace a truly holistic approach to dental care.”
Conclusion
Root canal treatment, often underestimated, may provide significant benefits well beyond oral health. By reducing inflammation, improving blood sugar regulation and promoting healthier lipid profiles, the procedure could help prevent some of today’s most serious chronic diseases.
This groundbreaking research reinforces a vital message: taking care of your oral health is taking care of your whole body.
Root Canals: More Than Oral Health
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