Can I Get Dental Implants if I Have Diabetes?

Dental implants for diabetes are quite feasible, but diabetics have to meet special requirements. It is known that high blood sugar levels promote inflammation of the tooth structure. So those who have diabetes also have an increased risk of periodontitis. However, since a healthy, inflammation-free mouth must be given when inserting dental implants, there is a risk that dental implants for diabetics may not heal properly and the implant may be lost.

This article will explore some considerations for diabetic patients who are considering getting dental implants.

What Risks & Precautions Should a Diabetic Be Aware About When Getting Dental Implants?

Blood sugar levels are often not under control in diabetes mellitus. Especially in patients whose diabetes is poorly treated or has not been diagnosed. Highly fluctuating sugar levels affect and disrupt numerous metabolic processes in the body, causing long-term damage to organs such as the kidneys or the retina of the eye. The increased glucose level in the blood also has a negative effect on wound healing.

However, this does not necessarily have to be an obstacle for a supply of dental implants. With stable, well-adjusted sugar levels and the appropriate precautions, dental implants for diabetes can also be inserted. In these cases, the loss rate in diabetics is comparable to the loss rate in healthy patients.

So what risks exist?

Healing Wounds

In order for the dental implant to heal properly, it is important to lower the glucose level and to achieve stable sugar levels in the long term. For this, the blood sugar diary is included in the treatment. The regularly logged values ​​provide information about the patient’s condition and care. In the sensitive phase of healing, the blood sugar level must be monitored very closely and kept as constant as possible. This requires a lot of attention and care from the patient and thorough controls from the practitioner.

Restricted Immune Defense

In diabetics, the body’s own defense system against infections with bacteria, viruses and fungi is weakened as a result of high sugar levels. Inflammation and infections can spread undisturbed and heal slowly. In the context of an implantation in diabetes, great importance must be attached to a germ-free oral cavity and the strengthening of the immune system. For this purpose, an antibiotic is usually prescribed before the treatment and during the healing phase.

Decreased Bone Formation

Calcium absorption and the production of bone-forming cells are disturbed in diabetes. A means of transport is required so that the calcium bone component can get into the bloodstream. In this case, vitamin D. However, its production is also disrupted. The bone production required for the healing of the dental implant is inhibited and impaired to the extent that the loss of the implant threatens.

Are There Alternatives to Dental Implants If I Have Diabetes?

Classic restorations with bridges, crowns or prostheses are an alternative to dental implants. These solutions are optically and often unsatisfactory in handling. Damage to neighboring teeth by grinding or special clip systems cannot be completely ruled out. There is therefore a lot to be said for the supply of dental implants for diabetes.

However, one has to take care that after an implantation, especially with diabetes, one has to pay attention to a thorough and careful oral hygiene. The tissue prone to inflammation requires great care and special care. Regular professional tooth cleaning and more frequent check-ups should also be taken by patients with diabetes in order to enjoy their dental implant permanently.

Questions? Contact Dr. Brian Gurinsky

If you have any additional questions about how diabetes can impact dental implants or are looking to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gurinsky, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly staff today!

We offer periodontal services in two convenient locations: One periodontal office in Denver, CO and one periodontal office in Centennial, CO.