Dental implants for a diabetic – Is it safe?

Tooth loss is a growing concern among several adults. The reason for tooth loss can range from bad oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth injury, teeth grinding to smoking, drinking alcohol or poor nutrition. Tooth loss not only affects aesthetics, self-esteem and confidence; but also causes trouble with eating and speaking.

A host of factors cause tooth loss, but this does not mean it’s all that difficult to solve.

Dental implants are one of the most effective and easiest dental solutions for tooth loss. Your dentist will make a replica of the teeth that need to be replaced. Then they surgically implant a permanent replacement, hence the name.

However, a lot of people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are concerned about the safety and risks involved with this dentistry procedure – that is, the dental implants procedure. 

Are dental implants safe for people with diabetes?

It’s true that those with diabetes may require special implant care, however, dental implant surgery is widely considered to be a safe and effective procedure when conducted by dental professionals (Orthodontists or Oral Surgeons) after examining complete patient medical history. 

Studies show that dental implants are safe when diabetes is under well control and the risk involved with such patients is similar to that of healthy patients. However, it is not the same with uncontrolled diabetes – as you are at greater risk of infection and complications. Detailed information is provided in the article below. 

If you are diabetic and looking for dental implants, here are some of the considerations you need to review:

Factors to consider while opting for dental implants for diabetics

1. Is your diabetes under control?

People with controlled diabetes have a lesser risk of complications as compared to their non-diabetic counterparts. Studies have shown that patients with uncontrolled diabetes had higher rates of infection and implant failure post-procedure.

If you are wondering why those with uncontrolled diabetes have complications, you would first need to understand how implants work – 

Since implants are embedded into the jaw, the body’s natural healing process is required to integrate the implant with the jaw and the gums need to heal as well. This healing of the gums and the jaw is what makes dental implants more of a natural restoration treatment, unlike conventional dentures or bridges. 

Now, because the healing process in people with uncontrolled diabetes is slower, it can cause complications. 

Your oral surgeon will provide you with options for tooth replacement or insist you on trying to control your sugar levels before getting the implant treatment. 

Besides, there are other factors that can affect the decision of getting an implant for a diabetic patient. That leads us to the next question for consideration.

2. Are you a victim of type 1 or type 2 diabetes? 

One important thing to keep in mind is that age is a factor. If one has been a victim of diabetes for a long time, s/he will be more prone to complications, infections and a slower process of healing. 

There is a higher risk of failure and complications in type 1 diabetic people than in type 2. This is because type 1 diabetes is difficult to control. 

This in no way means that those having type 1 diabetes cannot opt for dental implants. Of course, you can, however, your oral surgeon will need to be ultra-careful in reviewing your dental records, medical history and assessing your general health. This will help in advising the right option and also learning about your body’s healing timeline. 

3. Are you generally healthy? 

While being diabetic is one thing, maintaining good overall health is also important. 

If you have the following health concerns, you must discuss them before going for dental implants treatment:

• Existing gum or periodontal disease 
• Low bone density
• Difficult to work with certain post-treatment diet
• Smoker – This is because healing takes a longer period of time for those who smoke. Additionally, the sucking action that is required when smoking can compromise healing as well. If you are a smoker, you’d either need to quit (which we advise always) or must be committed to quitting for the duration of the process – which could mean a matter of months. 
• If you have recently been treated for oral cancer 
• If you have taken bisphosphate medications in the past 
• Any  condition that compromises your ability to heal 

Whether you were able to answer the above questions positively or not, dental implants still may be an excellent choice to get your teeth back to perfection, BUT, after a thorough consultation with your dental professional.

Are you interested in knowing whether dental implants are safe with your diabetes diagnosis? Contact us! We are one of the best dental clinics in Bangalore and have a rating of 4.8/5. We offer 360° dental solutions – Walk out with a radiant smile!

FAQ’s

1. What causes tooth loss in adults?

Tooth loss can result from poor oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth injury, teeth grinding, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or poor nutrition. It affects aesthetics, self-esteem, eating, and speaking.

 2. Can smokers with diabetes get dental implants?

Smoking delays healing and can compromise implant success, especially for diabetic patients. Smokers may need to quit or commit to avoiding smoking during the healing process, which could take months.

3. What health conditions might affect dental implant eligibility?

Conditions like gum disease, low bone density, recent oral cancer treatment, use of bisphosphate medications, or any condition that impairs healing may require special consideration before proceeding with implants.

4. How can I ensure a successful dental implant procedure as a diabetic patient?

Work closely with your oral surgeon to review your medical history, control your blood sugar levels, maintain good overall health, and follow post-treatment care instructions, including quitting smoking if applicable.

5. Is there a difference in implant safety for type 1 vs. type 2 diabetes?

Yes, type 1 diabetes, which is harder to control, carries a higher risk of complications and slower healing compared to type 2. However, with careful evaluation, type 1 diabetic patients can still be candidates for implants.