Dental Implants and Diabetes
Tooth loss is more common than most people realize. Patients with medical concerns such as diabetes, may also be at an increased risk for missing teeth. Fortunately, dental implants are a safe and effective tooth replacement solution for patients with diabetes. In many cases, dental implants help improve the patient’s overall health as they are able to consume a nutritious and well-balanced diet.
Not only do implants aid in allowing diabetic patients to maintain a balanced diet, but they can also help reduce or completely eliminate issues commonly associated with dentures or damaged teeth. This may include inflammation, irritation and infection. Patients who have diabetes may require special care prior to and following the implant procedure. This special care helps ensure the implant procedure is successful and lowers the risk for complications. According to recent studies, the data suggests that dental implants are indeed safe for patients with controlled diabetes.
Diabetes and Dental Implants
A study was completed which focused on dental implants and diabetes. In the study, the research found that in cases of well controlled diabetes, implants were found to be safe and have predictable results. The success rates were similar to the rates seen with healthy patients. This is very promising for diabetic adult patients who suffer from tooth loss. Many patients desire a safe and durable tooth replacement alternative to traditional dentures, which come with numerous limitations and challenges. Below is a summary of things to consider for diabetic patients who are considering dental implants.
Type 1 and 2 Diabetes
It can be more challenging to control type 1 diabetes. As a result, patients with type 1 diabetes are at an increased risk for complications and failure compared to patients who have type 2 diabetes. While there are added risks for patients with type 1 diabetes, this does not mean they are not candidates for dental implants. The dentist or oral surgeon may need to take extra precautions and be more diligent prior to the procedure. The dental professional will thoroughly review the patient’s dental and medical records, evaluate the patient’s general health, and review the patient’s history of infection. It is important to understand how to expect the body to heal from the implant procedure and have realistic timelines.
Patients Age
For patients with diabetes, their age may also play a bigger role than it would in non-diabetic patients. Depending on how long the patient has had diabetes can impact if they are more prone to infections. In addition, patients who have had diabetes for longer will have a slower recovery. Patients with diabetes who would like to discuss dental implants should follow up with their dentist as soon as possible. Seeking prompt treatment without delay is optimal, especially for patients with diabetes.
Controlled Diabetes
Numerous studies have found that patients with controlled diabetes have the same risk for experiencing complications and implant failure compared to non-diabetic patients. The data also found that patients who had uncontrolled cases of diabetes were at an increased risk for infection and implant failure.
Implant Procedure
Dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. The success of the implant depends on the implant during to the jaw through a process called osseointegration. In healthy patients, this process occurs during the natural healing process. In addition, the patient’s gums must also heal from the procedure. The healing process is critical in the success of the implant as this fusion to the jaw is what makes implants so similar to the natural teeth. Compared to conventional dentures and bridges, implants are a more permanent and secure solution.
In general, patients with diabetes experience a slower recovery and it takes longer for their body to heal. This is especially true for patients with uncontrolled diabetes who may have challenges healing. Dentists and oral surgeons typically ask patients to work with an internist to control their diabetes prior to beginning the dental implant treatment. Once the patient’s diabetes is controlled, the implant procedure can begin.
General Health
A common question from patients is whether or not they are old for dental implants. Patients are living longer than ever and strongly desire an active lifestyle. The patient’s health is actually a more important factor than their age when considering if they are a good candidate for implants. Below is a summary of things which may prevent patients from being good dental implant candidates:
- Existing gum disease
- Low bone density which cannot support the implant
- Patients who are unwilling or unable to follow the aftercare instructions and dietary limitations required for the mouth to heal
- Smoking and tobacco use which inhibits the healing process and can compromise the implant
- Certain cancer treatments and medications
- A disease or condition which limits the patient’s ability to heal
The dental professional puts the patient first. Dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement solution. In order to make the treatment successful, it is important for the dentist or oral surgeon to have a good understanding of the patient’s health and medical history. The dental team will work with the patient to ensure they are ready to proceed with the dental implant procedure. In some situations, the patient will need to take certain steps to ensure the implant procedure is successful. It is important to ensure the patient does not have medical issues or limitations which will put them at greater risk for implant failure or complications.
Implants and a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet for most individuals, including those with diabetes, generally includes consuming fruits, vegetables, and fresh, whole foods. These types of foods require strong muscles for chewing. Because dental implants are incredibly strong and secure, they make it easier for patients to consume a healthy, balanced diet. In comparison, dentures must be removed when patients consume certain foods, or the foods must be avoided altogether. Patients with diabetes must be diligent and disciplined in consuming a healthy diet.
Limitations with Dentures
Dentures rest on top of the gums and are more likely to slip out of place and move around. This can result in tenderness and discomfort. Foods which are nutritious such as high-fiber vegetables require patients to have a stronger bite. They may be impossible to consume for some patients with dentures or missing teeth. Patients with traditional dentures may simply result in eating less or eating less nutritious foods. Unfortunately, this can make it incredibly difficult for diabetic patients to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.
Contact the office today to schedule a consultation with the dentist. The dental team can aid in reviewing your health history to determine if you may be a good candidate for dental implants. Many patients with controlled diabetes find that dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement solution which can help manage their disease and aid in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.