Apical Periodontitis: Its Impact and Management
Apical periodontitis is a medical condition affecting the roots of teeth, where bacteria from untreated dental caries spread through the root canal to the tooth apex, causing inflammation in the surrounding bone. If left untreated, this inflammation can gradually destroy bone tissue.
The Connection Between Apical Periodontitis and General Health
The impact of apical periodontitis is not limited to tooth loss; it extends to overall health. This condition is closely linked with systemic diseases such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, and kidney diseases. Each can exacerbate the other, creating a harmful cycle between oral inflammation and general health.
Dr. Rogério de Castilho, a professor at the School of Dentistry in Aracatuba, São Paulo State University (FOA-UNESP), explains that this condition may go unnoticed by patients due to its chronic nature, but it can progress to bone destruction and tooth mobility. In certain situations, such as reduced immunity, it can become acute, causing pain, pus formation at the site, and facial swelling.
The Role of Exercise and Dietary Supplements
A new study has shown that moderate exercise combined with omega-3 supplements can significantly improve this inflammatory condition. These factors together helped control bacterial growth, reduce bone loss, balance the production of inflammatory molecules, and stimulate cells that repair and support tissues.
In the study, apical periodontitis was induced in 30 mice, which were divided into three groups. The first group received no treatment, the second group completed a 30-day swimming routine, and the third group participated in swimming along with omega-3 supplementation.
The Impact of Exercise and Omega-3 Supplements
The results showed improvement in mice that only exercised compared to untreated animals, but the group that exercised and received omega-3 supplements demonstrated the greatest improvement in immune regulation and infection control.
Detailed immunological examinations revealed that mice receiving both interventions had lower levels of inflammatory cytokines. Fewer bone-resorbing cells were observed in the exercise and supplement groups, indicating less bone loss.
Conclusion
The findings of this study suggest that exercise and omega-3 intake can offer significant benefits in enhancing oral and systemic immunity. Although these results were obtained in mice, clinical studies in humans are needed to confirm the findings. Nonetheless, the proven benefits of exercise and omega-3 make these results an important addition to medical literature.