Can A Type 2 Diabetic Patient Get Dental Implants
There are more than 26 million diabetics in the United States alone. Patients with diabetes need to be aware of the potential risks involved with undergoing surgeries or medical procedures.
For most patients, implants and other dental procedures pose little risk. But patients with diabetes can face challenges related to complications following surgery.
Challenges for Diabetic Patients
Diabetic patients are more likely to suffer from gum disease, especially if their diabetes isnt under control. Advanced gum disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and weakens bone.
Implants would not be recommended until the gum disease has been treated and reserved.
Diabetes damages the bodys natural healing mechanisms. Patients with diabetes usually take longer to recover from surgery and can experience longer recovery periods. This impaired healing process presents a greater risk of infection. Postprocedural infections are treatable, but they can lead to implant failure in some cases.
Who Qualifies for Dental Implants?
Potential challenges and complications dont always disqualify diabetics from receiving implants. Their dentist will determine if theyre a good candidate for the procedure.The following are factors your dentist will take into consideration during the assessment process:
Good News for Diabetic Patients
Dental Implants And Patients With Diabetes
Dental implants are not barred for people who suffer from diabetes but if you have diabetes then you should know that you are at a greater risk of implant failure as compared to others. If you have uncontrolled diabetes then you shouldnt opt for the procedure at all, however, people with controlled diabetes often do well with implant surgeries.
The rate of dental implant failure is quite high in people with diabetes. This is mainly because people suffering from Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes might take long to heal the wound of the surgical implant. Also diabetic patients are at a greater risk of infection. And because infections like those in the gums are very common in people with diabetes, the risk of dental implant failure increases tenfold and might lead to other complications as well.
However advancements and new research in the dental implant surgical procedures now confirm that diabetic patients have a higher rate of dental implant surgery success than thought previously. According to the latest research people with controlled and uncontrolled diabetes have an equal chance of successful dental implant surgical procedures with the only difference of people with poorly controlled diabetes needing more time for implant healing before the dentures are placed.
Can I Wear My Denture During The Course Of Implant Treatment
You may be fitted with a temporary denture during the dental implant treatment process.
Temporary dentures are made before any extractions or surgery to removed damaged teeth. They are placed immediately after the surgery and help to maintain the shape of the face during the healing process. Gums may shrink as they heal, so permanent dentures are made after healing has taken place for an accurate fit.
If you already have full dentures, they can be modified so that you can wear them when undergoing treatment. Removable bridges can also be worn temporarily before permanent teeth restorations are fitted.
Dr Colin Neil comments, If you are suitable for same day teeth and immediate restoration, you will not need to wear temporary dentures because your replacement teeth will have already been attached to your implants on the same day as surgery.
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Diabetes And The Healing Of Soft Tissue
Diabetics with uncontrolled blood sugar have a weakened immune response, making them vulnerable to infection. A major contributing factor to a diabetics weakened immunity is a drop in the efficiency of the circulatory system. This affects the ability of the blood to send white nutrients, blood cells and antibodies to where they are needed in a timely manner.
Sustained high blood glucose levels also encourage the growth and proliferation of harmful bacteria. A person with diabetes becomes all the more vulnerable when they have a wound. For starters, the person will heal slower than someone with normal blood sugar. To add to this, the diabetic will be at a higher risk of developing an infection.
Diabetes And Dental Implants
Its a common concern for people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes to contemplate whether dental implants will have a positive or negative impact on their health. While the procedure is not impossible for people with the disease, you must know you are at a higher risk of implant failure. Its suggested for people with uncontrolled diabetes not to consider the procedure but if you have controlled diabetes, you can do well.
Knowing you have an increased risk for an unsuccessful outcome doesnt mean it happens to every single patient. Despite complications that can cause your dental implants to fail, several advancements in techniques and materials confirm not all people with diabetes will experience failure. With controlled Type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you will have a better chance of success.
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How Diabetes Affects Your Candidacy For Dental Implants
Diabetes elevates the risk of multiple health issues, including a slower healing rate. This may prevent dental implants from successfully integrating with the jawbone and providing a sturdy, long-lasting foundation for replacement teeth. That being said, dental implants are not automatically out of the question for diabetics.
If you have diabetes and are thinking about getting dental implants, consider these questions first:
Can Diabetics Get Dental Implants
Having diabetes doesnt automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants, but you should know that there are additional risks associated with the procedure. People with diabetes are higher risk for dental implant failure for a few different reasons. If you have diabetes, they will take longer to heal from the surgury, and they are more prone to infections. Since diabetics are more susceptible to infection, this increases the risk of dental implant failure. Diabetes is also able to affect the osseointegration process where the implant fuses with the jawbone. Since it takes longer, it is more likely that complications could develop.
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Dental Implants Safe In Patients With Uncontrolled Diabetes
Laird Harrison
Dentists can safely place dental implants in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, a new study shows. The finding contradicts common recommendations.
“We failed to identify any association between elevated blood sugar and implant failure or implant complications,” first author Thomas W. Oates Jr, DMD, PhD, told Medscape Medical News.
Along with his colleagues, Dr Oates, a professor in the Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, the article in the December issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association.
After 1 year, none of the implants placed in 19 patients with uncontrolled diabetes failed.
The results came as no surprise to Kim Gowey, DDS, a past president of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, who practices in Medford, Wisconsin. He has had good results in placing implants in patients with diabetes, he told Medscape Medical News.
“I’ve never turned away a diabetic for treatment because they’re diabetic,” said Dr Gowey, who was not involved in the study. “I’ve always told them, ‘Because you’re diabetic, it could affect the collagen synthesis, and you have a higher risk of failure.’ Now I can say there is not a higher risk.”
Diabetes causes many problems that could theoretically affect implant survival, Dr Oates said. It alters bone formation, increases the risk for infections, compromises wound healing, and often entails comorbidities.
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Ive Got Diabetes So Can I Have Dental Implants
A dental implant in Richmond or elsewhere in the UK for that matter, is a popular method of replacing a missing tooth to restore both functionality and appearance. However, if youve been researching implants then youve probably read that diabetics do not make good candidates for dental implants. Although patients with diabetes are more at risk of dental implant failure it doesnt mean that they are automatically ruled out from having implant treatment. While its true that a person with uncontrolled diabetes shouldnt undergo dental implant surgery, we have treated patients with uncontrolled diabetes and theyve faired very well.
Why are diabetics more at risk of implant failure?
What can a diabetic do to ensure a successful dental implant?
Thankfully there are steps a diabetic can take to improve their chances of successful dental implant treatment by working closely with their doctor and their dentist. Weve put together a few tips to follow:
- Get your diabetes under control This is the very first thing to do if youre considering dental implants in Richmond. Work with your doctor and seek advice on diet and exercise and more importantly, make sure you take all of your prescribed medication.
- Stick to a good oral hygiene routine Diabetics are more prone to oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and dry mouth. Its more important than ever to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to keep your mouth healthy.
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Preventing Delayed Healing In Diabetic Patient After Implant Placement
Though dental implant placement is a great option for someone looking to replace missing teeth, a diabetic patient who opts for this option may experience some delayed healing. While some dentists advise against implants for diabetic patients because of this, there are still cases where this treatment may be unavoidable.
The healing process after dental implants are placed is quite involved, and even more involved for someone with diabetes. Learn how to prevent delayed healing after dental implant placement for someone with diabetes. Patients who struggle with diabetes but are in need of tooth replacement through dental implants may find this information to be helpful.
Should You Get Dental Implants
Getting implants really is an idea worth considering, especially if you have diabetes, as they can help aid some of the issues inherently linked to that disorder.
The great thing about them is that they provide a great deal of stability. Conventional dentures can lead to a starchy, soft menu.
If you have diabetes, you are probably more conscious of your diet than the average person and know this could make the problem worse. Dental implants enable you to bite and chew more comfortably.
They also stimulate the bone and prevent loss. In order to get implants installed the bone has to be thick enough. If it isnt, the patient must undergo bone grafting. Provided your diabetes is well-controlled, this procedure is as safe as for other patients.
Remember that, at least for the duration of the process, you must stop smoking, if you do at all. Smoking is always a contraindication to implant placement.
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Its Never Too Late To Consider Dental Implants
Due to medical developments the average population is living longer, resulting in more people experiencing the need for long-term, permanent fixed teeth.
Modern dentistry with advanced techniques, high quality materials and procedures such as bone and gum grafting, allow more people to take advantage of implant treatment and experience the many benefits.
To find out if dental implants are right for you, send your questions to a local implant dentist.
This article was written with advice from:
Effect Of Diabetes On Dental Implant
Diabetes affects the entire body in ways that can be described as disruptive. For people looking to replace a missing tooth while also struggling with diabetes, there are a number of options. A dental implant is usually preferred by people when they need a treatment that lasts long, replicates the natural tooth as closely as it can, and provides support to the rest of the teeth.
However, they rely on the bodys healing power so the root can be integrated into the jawbone. This is followed by the gums healing around the implant. This healing process is what makes the implant seem like a real tooth and a more permanent solution than bridges and dentures. However, as talked about above, diabetes gets in between the healing process, which significantly increases the chances of implant failure.
While it is true that implants have a really high success rate , but even they can fail if proper care is not taken. And an underlying condition like diabetes can significantly reduce the success rate as well.
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How Diabetes Affects Healing
Wounds in diabetics tend to heal more slowly, and to be more infection-prone than in non-diabetic individuals. Damage to the small blood vessels caused by high glucose levels is believed to play a major role. Narrowing and stiffening of the capillaries can reduce blood circulation to the eyes, fingers, toes, kidneys even gums.
The elevated blood sugar levels of diabetes can also change the bodys inflammatory response. Inflammation, the first step in the wound healing process, normally has a protective role. In diabetic people, however, inflammation can become chronic, eventually leading to tissue damage and other problems.
Because implant placement requires minor surgery, dentists and researchers have long been concerned about whether dental implants are appropriate for diabetic patients. In the past few years, a growing number of studies have compared the outcomes of implant surgery on non-diabetics versus diabetics with good or poor glucose control. The recent results are encouraging: Many diabetics can indeed be good candidates for dental implants.
Individuals who have diabetes thats not well controlled should always seek advice from medical professionals. But poor blood glucose control by itself doesnt necessarily rule out dental implants your dentist or doctor may have recommendations that could help in your particular case.
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What Are The Treatment Options
First option is placement of two to four implants for support of a removable overdenture. This options provides great stability for the overdenture and significantly improves function and comfort. The second option is placement of a fixed prosthesis on four to six implants. The fixed prosthesis, also known as a hybrid, offers more comfort and resemblance to natural teeth as it does not have any denture flanges or extensions.
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Consult A Dentist To Find Out If Dental Implants Will Work
Skilled, experienced dentists will do an exhaustive evaluation of their patients before they recommend dental implant surgery. If a permanent replacement for a missing tooth is needed, schedule an appointment to find out if dental implants are a good option.
Request an appointment here: or call High Plains Periodontics And Implant Dentistry at for an appointment in our Lubbock office.
Getting Dental Implants When You Have Diabetes
If you have diabetes, then you likely already know that it takes your body longer to heal than the average, non-diabetic. So, does your delayed healing process exclude you from getting dental implants? Thankfully, the answer is no. Especially if your diabetes is under control by diet, exercise, medication or insulin, theres no reason for you to expect that you will have complications when getting dental implants.
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Dental Implants Vs Conventional Dentures
Dentists should recommend dental implants instead of conventional dentures in every patient. Dental implants are now the standard of care for replacement of missing teeth. Conventional dentures cause irreversible damage to the jaw bone and significantly compromise patients chewing function, and therefore should be avoided.
Getting Dental Implants When You Have Jawbone Tissue Loss
Many people who are missing teeth have lost them as a result of gum disease, or periodontitis. One of the common side effects of periodontitis is jawbone tissue loss, but in order to get dental implants, you need to have sufficient jawbone tissue so the titanium screw will fuse with your jawbone. So what are you to do if youve lost jawbone tissue to gum disease? Thankfully, an additional oral surgery called a jawbone graft can help regrow jawbone tissue in your mouth, making it possible for you to get dental implants. While a jawbone graft may delay your dental implants surgery for 6 months to a year, it is still entirely possible for you to repair your smile with dental implants.
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How Dental Implants Benefit Diabetic Patients
Without proper dental function, chewing foods can become difficult. This can be a problem for diabetic patients who are trying to eat healthy foods. Damaged and missing teeth must be restored so that the patient can chew foods like raw vegetables, fruits, and meats that are essential to a healthy diet and controlling diabetes.
Dental implants are a functional and durable solution for people with missing teeth. The implants are inserted into the jawbone and permanently embedded through a natural process called osseointegration. Then, a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, completing the restoration and improving the patients dental function.
Do Diabetics Have To Take Extra Steps
If you are interested in getting dental implants, you should be aware of the considerations that affect you as a diabetic. First of all, you should inform your dentist about several things:
- the type of diabetes you have,
- the medication you are taking,
- and your general lifestyle.
Prior to surgery, you will have to make sure your sugar levels are good. If they are not, you should postpone any dental procedures other than acute infections such as abscesses.
The most common solution for patients with diabetes is the All-On-Four method, which includes implant placement.
If you are reluctant we may have an even better solution for you.
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Dental Implants Can Help You Maintain A Diabetes
Have you noticed that the healthiest diets for individuals with diabetes include lots of fresh, whole foods that require chewing firmer foods? The permanent nature of dental implants makes it much easier to eat the foods you need compared to dentures.
Dentures are much more prone to moving around, causing gum tenderness and denture sores. Foods that require stronger bite force like nutritious, high-fiber vegetables can be impossible to eat. When people suffer from the poor fit, irritation and discomfort caused by dentures, theyre more apt to eat less or eat the wrong foods and resort to softer, processed, higher-carb options. This can make it it impossible to keep blood sugar levels in check.
Contact us if youre interested in learning more about whether dental implants are safe with your diabetes. Well do a complete evaluation and refer you to our oral surgeons for evaluation. Proper oral care can be the next best step to help you take care of your whole body!