Can Diabetics Get Dental Implants?

Your general health and wellness aren’t the only areas diabetes can affect you. It can also take a toll on your smile if it isn’t controlled. Gum disease is the most serious oral health issue for diabetics, which is a leading cause of tooth loss. Dental implants are the most reliable option to replace missing teeth, but are they right for you? Contrary to what you might have heard, diabetics can be candidates for dental implants, and here’s how. 

Dental Implants and Diabetes

A dental implant differs from any other tooth replacement because it replicates both the root and the crown. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jaw to serve as a new root. An abutment is connected to the post to attach a customized restoration. This creates a perfect replica of your real tooth using a method that’s proven to last for 30 years or more. While they have over a 95% success rate, complications can occur, like infections. 

Unfortunately, unmanaged diabetes can increase the risk of failure because it can cause a condition called atherosclerosis, which causes fat to accumulate in the blood vessels and arteries. As a result, white blood cells can’t reach the sight of infections, which can lead to delayed healing and an increased risk of infections. Not only can you be at risk of peri-implantitis, an infection connected to dental implant failure, but also failed osseointegration, which is vital to the long-term success of the procedure. Your bone must fuse to the implant post. If osseointegration fails, dental implants must be removed.

Although diabetics may have a few more factors for complications, that doesn’t mean dental implants can’t be successful. Your dentist will create the personalized plan you need to complete your smile. 

Are Dental Implants Safe for Diabetics?

You can get dental implants if you have diabetes, but the process may look a little different for you than for patients without it. Your first step to replacing your missing teeth is to ensure your diabetes is controlled and schedule a consultation with your dentist.

They’ll examine your mouth to look for anything concerning, like bone loss or gum disease. Any underlying issues must be addressed before moving forward with your placement surgery. You may require more time to heal after your implants are placed, but it will be worth the wait to ensure your new teeth have a strong, healthy foundation.

You can keep infection at bay with a solid home oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist regularly for a cleaning and checkup. Continue to manage your diabetes and don’t wait to contact your dentist if you develop any concerns between your routine appointments, like redness or inflammation near the post. With a proactive approach, you can enjoy a complete, beautiful smile that can thrive for decades. 

About Dr. John Vitello

Dr. Vitello achieved his dental degree from the LECOM School of Dental Medicine and completes continuing education regularly to provide advanced services, like dental implants. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, contact our office today to request your consultation.