Root canal treatment is associated with better blood sugar control

LONDON, England: Although periapical periodontitis can increase systemic inflammation and is associated with cardiovascular risk and reduced glycemic control, the relationship between endodontic treatment and improved metabolic health has not been previously investigated. A pioneering clinical study at King’s College London has now investigated changes in serum metabolites after root canal treatment and found that it was associated with significantly reduced inflammation and improvements in blood glucose and cholesterol levels, highlighting the systemic health benefits of effective dental care.

In the study, researchers followed 65 patients at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust for two years after root canal treatment. They analyzed the patients’ serum samples at five time points to monitor changes in 44 metabolites – particularly those involved in glucose, amino acid and lipid metabolism. They also correlated these changes with markers of clinical metabolic syndrome, inflammatory biomarkers, and blood and root canal microbiomes to better understand the impact of periapical periodontitis and its treatment on risks for systemic conditions.

The team found that successful root canal treatment was associated with several important health benefits. For example, blood glucose levels showed a statistically significant decrease two years after treatment—a remarkable improvement in glucose metabolism that could help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. In addition, short-term improvements were seen in blood cholesterol and fatty acid levels, indicating lipid profiles that are closely related to heart health. The study found changing patterns of association between metabolites and inflammatory markers. The authors suggested that these patterns reflect a lower inflammatory burden after treatment. In addition, bacteria derived from infected teeth were found to be associated with systemic metabolic changes, highlighting the broader impact of oral health on overall physical function.

Senior author Dr Sadia Niazi, senior clinical lecturer in endodontics at King’s, said in a press release: “Our findings show that root canal treatment doesn’t just improve oral health—it can also help reduce the risk of serious conditions like diabetes and heart disease. It’s a powerful reminder that oral health is deeply connected to overall health.”

Dr. Niazi emphasized that it is important for dental professionals to understand the wider implications of root canal infections and to actively promote early diagnosis and early treatment. “We also need to move towards integrated care, where dentists and general practitioners work together to monitor risks through these blood markers and protect overall health. It is time to move beyond teeth and take a truly holistic approach to dental care,” he concluded.

Although further research is needed to validate these findings in larger populations, according to the authors, the study provides advanced insights into the role of oral care in promoting overall health and well-being.

The study entitled “Successful endodontic treatment improves glucose and lipid metabolism: A longitudinal metabolomic study”, published online November 18, 2025 at Journal of Translational Medicine.