New research published in Scientific Reports suggests that regular exercise combined with omega-3 supplementation can significantly boost immune function and reduce the severity of chronic apical periodontitis, an inflammation affecting the tip of the tooth root.
Apical periodontitis arises when bacteria from untreated cavities reach the tooth’s apex, triggering inflammation in surrounding bone. Left untreated, the condition can progressively destroy bone tissue.
The study, led by Professor Rogério de Castilho at São Paulo State University’s Araçatuba School of Dentistry (FOA-UNESP), is the first to demonstrate that moderate exercise paired with omega-3 intake can effectively manage this condition.
The interventions controlled bacterial growth, minimized bone loss, balanced inflammatory molecules called cytokines, and stimulated tissue-repairing fibroblasts.
“Patients often remain unaware of this chronic condition until it escalates, causing bone destruction or tooth mobility. In cases of lowered immunity, it can become acute, resulting in pain, pus, and facial swelling,” Castilho explained.
The research involved 30 rats with induced apical periodontitis, divided into three groups: untreated, swimming-only, and swimming with omega-3 supplementation.
Both interventions improved outcomes compared to untreated animals, but the combination of exercise and omega-3 showed the most significant reduction in inflammation and tissue damage.
Rats receiving both interventions had the lowest levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin 17 (IL-17) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Bone-preserving effects were also observed, with fewer osteoclasts—cells that break down bone—and micro CT scans confirming reduced alveolar bone loss.
Ana Paula Fernandes Ribeiro, the study’s first author, noted, “Exercise alone improved systemic immune response, but when combined with omega-3 supplementation, it further reduced the destructive impact of endodontic disease.”
The findings highlight the broader connection between oral and systemic health. Untreated apical periodontitis is linked to diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arteriosclerosis, and kidney disease, creating a cycle where oral inflammation worsens overall health.
While these results are currently limited to animal models, the researchers believe the evidence supports the known benefits of exercise and omega-3s for human immune and oral health.
Jacinto, a co-author, added, “Clinical studies in humans are needed, but this adds another important piece to the puzzle.”
The study was funded by FAPESP through Scientific Initiation grants awarded to co-author Michely de Lima Rodrigues.
