Dental Precautions to Avoid Visiting the Dentist's Office
In a groundbreaking study supervised by Rogério de Castilho at FOA-UNESP, apical periodontitis - a chronic tooth root infection - was induced in 30 rats and divided into three groups[1]. The first group was left alone, the second underwent a 30-day swimming regimen, and the third group received dietary supplementation of omega-3, a polyunsaturated fatty acid known for its therapeutic effects on chronic inflammation[2].
The results of the study provide new evidence of the benefits of exercise and omega-3 fatty acids for the immune system and oral health. When combined, these activities significantly reduced the inflammation caused by apical periodontitis[3].
Physical exercise alone brought about a systemic improvement and regulated the local immune response in rats[4]. Moreover, the combination of exercise and omega-3 supplementation further reduced the destructive condition caused by endodontic pathology (tooth infection)[5].
The combination of these activities stimulates the activity of fibroblasts, the cells that create and maintain tissue, and limits bacterial progression[2]. It also reduces bone tissue loss[5].
The study shows that a combination of moderate physical exercise and omega-3 supplementation significantly reduces the inflammation caused by apical periodontitis. This could potentially lead to healthier bone and soft tissue outcomes around the affected tooth roots[3].
Rogério de Castilho, from the Aracatuba School of Dentistry at São Paulo State University (FOA-UNESP) in Brazil, states that apical periodontitis can also worsen specific health conditions such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arteriosclerosis, and kidney disease[6].
Mackerel, salmon, herring, oysters, and sardines are fish rich in omega-3. High-quality fish or krill oil supplements, or eating at least two servings of fish weekly, can provide omega-3s[7].
Key points include:
- Reduction of inflammation: The combined intervention lowers chronic inflammation in apical periodontitis, which is often otherwise difficult to manage[1][3].
- Enhanced immune response: Exercise and omega-3 fatty acids together boost immune mechanisms that help control infection and tissue damage in the dental root area[5].
- Promotion of bone and tissue regeneration: Omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, together with the systemic benefits of exercise, support maintaining bone density and tissue integrity, which is crucial for managing infections that affect tooth roots and surrounding bone[1][3].
While not detailed explicitly in the provided results, improved vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and other molecular factors related to tissue repair and immune modulation might be involved, as suggested by related research on periodontitis and exercise-nutrition combinations[2].
In summary, combining exercise and omega-3 supplementation presents a promising approach to managing apical periodontitis by attenuating infection severity, supporting immune defenses, and promoting healthier bone and soft tissue outcomes around the affected tooth roots[1][3][5]. The study reinforces findings that indicate omega-3 fatty acids could help fight off periodontitis and protect against tooth pulp infection and loss.
The study conducted by Rogério de Castilho at FOA-UNESP reveals that a combination of exercise and omega-3 supplementation, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, significantly reduces inflammation caused by apical periodontitis and could potentially lead to healthier bone and soft tissue outcomes. Science and health-and-wellness enthusiasts may find this research beneficial, as it presents a promising approach to managing apical periodontitis by enhancing immune responses, promoting bone and tissue regeneration, and potentially mitigating the worsening of specific health conditions such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arteriosclerosis, and kidney disease associated with the infection.
