Root canals have a bad reputation. However, endodontists strive to make them as easy as possible with advanced technology and instruments. The good news is that innovation doesn’t stop there. A 2025 study has found a new method to promote healing after this procedure, and it’s something that’s naturally made in your body. High-density lipoprotein may help with recovery, so here’s what you should know.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Before diving into the recent research, it’s helpful to understand what happens during a root canal. The procedure starts with your endodontist numbing your mouth with local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. They then make a small opening in the enamel of the affected tooth with a specialized instrument to access the pulp inside.
Diseased or damaged tissues are removed, and the canals will be disinfected with sodium hypochlorite, or household bleach. A rubber-like material, gutta-percha, will be placed to fill and seal the cleaned space and prevent bacteria from re-entering. In many cases, a crown is put on afterward to give back the function and appearance of the tooth.
What is High-Density Lipoprotein?
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a natural cholesterol your body produces to transport excess cholesterol from your artery walls and tissues back to the liver. It helps reduce the risk of clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke. This has earned it the name of “good” cholesterol. That said, it also has anti-inflammatory benefits and can absorb toxins. This trait led researchers to wonder if it can help facilitate recovery in some capacity.
Can Lab-Made Cholesterol Promote Root Canal Healing?
While bleach is effective at disinfecting teeth during root canals, it can irritate living tissues and cause prolonged inflammation. This can lengthen the healing process, so a study had the question of whether lab-made HDL can be more beneficial to use.
The research did reveal some promise! Using it resulted in fewer bone-digesting cells, which can harm the recovering tissues after the procedure. They believe using it can shift the pro-inflammatory infection process into an anti-inflammatory one, since it directs the body to start its own healing. While the study had some good news, more testing is needed before it’s applied to patients. So, you may hear about a new step to root canals in the future!
About the Practice
Worried about needing a root canal? Our team at JC Endodontics Root Canal Specialists understands you may not be excited about this procedure, but we strive to make it as easy as possible. Led by compassionate endodontists, we are experts in this procedure and work to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout every step. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 212-737-6112.