A study published in Scientific Reports found that combining regular physical exercise with omega-3 supplementation reduced the severity of chronic apical periodontitis in an animal model. The research, carried out at the Araçatuba School of Dentistry at São Paulo State University (FOA-UNESP) and supported by FAPESP, is described by its authors as the first to examine this combination in the context of endodontic inflammation.

Apical periodontitis arises when bacteria from untreated decay reach the root apex, triggering bone-destructive inflammation. Left untreated, the condition is linked to systemic diseases including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arteriosclerosis, and kidney disease.

In the study, researchers induced apical periodontitis in 30 rats divided into three groups: untreated controls, a swimming-only group following a 30-day routine, and a group that both swam and received omega-3 supplements. Rats in the combined intervention group showed the lowest levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-17 and TNF-α, the fewest osteoclasts, and the greatest preservation of alveolar bone on micro CT scans. The swimming-only group also outperformed untreated animals, but to a lesser degree. The authors note that a clinical study with human patients would be needed before the findings can be translated to practice.