When looking up information about dental implants for diabetics, it can feel overwhelming at first. You’ll read about things like slowing healing factors, impaired immune systems, and a higher risk for bacterial infections. However, you should also read about how, with proper diabetic control and a mindful dentist, dental implants are as successful for diabetics as they are for anyone else.
The American Diabetes Association states that around 40 million Americans have diabetes, which is why it’s important to share the truth about diabetic-friendly dental procedures. Medical conditions shouldn’t scare people away from seeing a trusted dentist.
Dental implants are a possible treatment for everyone, as long as you work around any medical conditions that might alter the process. Our team at Matthew Anderson, DMD, MSD, is here to show you everything you should know.
Importance of Controlled Diabetes
Diabetes and dental health rely upon the patient having good control over their glucose levels.
Any level of HbA1c that’s over 7% can be concerning. Most dentists will want to wait for an implant procedure until those levels are under 7%, but exceptions are sometimes made.
Diabetes presents more of a risk to dental implant patients because of the way the extra sugar in the blood can affect things like oxygen in the blood and the immune system. With more control over your diabetes, the better your body fights off these issues.
Slow Healing
With high blood sugar, your blood can’t flow at a good pace for wound healing. The blood is slower to move through your system, making it more difficult for your veins to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your wounds.
Even the best dental clinic for diabetics would be worried about their patients’ recovery process if they had a high level of blood sugar.
Weakened Immune System
White blood cells struggle to make their way to invading bacteria, which means that diabetics are often susceptible to infections. This is a main concern for dental implant safety because a bacterial infection around the implant could lead to damage to the surrounding gums, teeth, and jawbone.
If your immune system is compromised, it could take a long time to bring your oral health back to its original state. It may even be necessary to remove the implant for proper healing to occur.
Dry Mouth
A drier mouth is an environment that makes it easy for bacteria to thrive. Not only does this overtax a diabetic’s immune system, but it also heightens the risk of oral infection.
This can be a dangerous combination for dental implants. Rinsing often with a mouthwash and taking saliva pills can help negate this problem.
Potential Complications for Dental Implants
With higher HbA1c levels, intensive dental procedures can become progressively riskier. However, there are dental implant complications that can occur during any patient’s treatment that everyone should know about.
These complications could be any of the following:
- Implant failure (improper bonding of the implant’s core to the bone)
- Nerve damage in the surrounding area
- Bacterial infection
- Peri-implantitis (gum disease that can damage the nearby bone and soft tissue around the implant)
- Sinus pressure
Since these are complications that can occur regardless of your medical status, every dental implant patient needs to be aware of them. As soon as any of these conditions occur, you need to get in contact with your dentist right away.
Should People With Diabetes Get Dental Implants?
This is a question that’s often asked, but doesn’t always have a quick answer. Many factors can change how your dentist might approach the installation of dental implants. For some patients, diabetes isn’t even the main concern.
The most vital thing to do is talk candidly with both your doctor and your dentist. Their insight into your medical health can help guide your dental journey on the right path.
Trying to hide the fact that you have diabetes won’t make your treatment any easier. In fact, it could make the entire procedure far more dangerous for you and your teeth.
Maintaining Good Oral Health for Diabetics
If you want to get dental implants in the future, now’s the time to amp up your oral hygiene routine. As a diabetic, you might have a few more roadblocks to maneuver, but good oral health is never a detriment.
Make sure your routine includes things such as:
- Brushing thoroughly after every meal or snack
- Flossing (making sure to use a water flosser for awkward places)
- Rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Drinking lots of water
- Meeting with your dentist regularly
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Success Rate of Dental Implants for Diabetics?
Even with several medical issues making the healing process less streamlined, the success rate of dental implants for diabetics is much the same as it is for anyone else. The National Library of Medicine posted a 5-year study that showed the success rate of this dental procedure to be 87.3% to 91.6% for diabetics.
Can I Remove My Teeth if I Have Diabetes?
Diabetics can choose to remove teeth if they wish. Some patients prefer to go with a full removal because it can be less traumatic than losing teeth due to receding gums or other dental concerns.
You’ll still need to be mindful during the healing process as you would for dental implants.
Can Diabetics Get Full Dental Implants?
As long as your dentist approves the procedure, there shouldn’t be anything stopping you from getting as many implants as necessary. Instead of implants, you could also choose to go with:
- Removable dentures
- Dental bridge
- Splinting
We Can Help You Achieve the Smile You Deserve
Dental implants for diabetics should be a celebrated choice. As long as you and your dentist take the necessary precautions and are mindful of the potential complications, you can achieve a new smile regardless of whether you have diabetes or not.
With Matthew Anderson, DMD, MSD, as your dental care provider, you know you’re in good hands. To ensure our patients get care from every angle possible, we consult with other Santa Rosa dental experts to make sure nothing escapes our treatment. We also work with you every step of the way so that we can create your beautiful smile together.
Schedule an appointment with us, and we can begin the process of evaluating your medical and dental needs!