SP-27 - Metabolic Diseases and Apical Periodontitis: Links and Solutions?

Presentation Description/Abstract: Host immune response is a key factor that determines the fate of disease and healing following treatment in apical periodontitis. Apical periodontitis a chronic disease involving different levels of immune defense mechanisms to invading microorganisms. This presentation will delve into the complex interplay of immune cells involved in healing of apical periodontitis following endodontic treatment. Growing interest is pointing to the role of systemic health effects such as metabolic diseases on the overall immune response. Where do we stand in terms of elucidating the role of metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and obesity, and apical periodontitis? Metabolic diseases resulting in immune dysregulation and effect of immunomodulatory factors in apical periodontitis will be discussed. This presentation will finally highlight some ongoing research using the principles of immunotherapy to overcome challenges in the endodontic treatment of patients with metabolic diseases.