CAN I GET DENTAL IMPLANTS IF I HAVE DIABETES?

If you’ve suffered from tooth loss in the past, you know just how difficult it can be to complete daily tasks, like eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence. The good news is that there are a variety of tooth replacement options to choose from in order to get your smile back, like dental implants! But as a diabetic patient, will you be able to undergo the procedure? Continue reading to learn more about getting dental implants when you have diabetes.

Why Are Diabetics at Higher Risk for an Implant Failure?

People who have diabetes are more likely to experience a dental implant failure for a variety of different reasons. They require more time to heal from a procedure, and they are more prone to develop an infection, like gum disease. With a higher risk of gum infection, diabetics are more likely to have an implant fail as a result. An infection around the site of an implant can ultimately lead to complications. Diabetes is also able to affect the osseointegration process where the implant fuses with the jawbone. Ultimately, it will take a diabetic patient more time to heal, so it is more likely that something will go wrong.

How Can your Increase Your Chances of Dental Implant Success?

The good news is that there are a variety of different steps that you can take as a diabetic to reduce your chances of experiencing a dental implant failure:

• Get Your Diabetes Under Control: This is the most important thing to do as a diabetic who is considering dental implants. By working with your doctor and seeking advice, you can significantly improve your chances of having successful implants.
• Excellent Oral Hygiene: Diabetes are more prone to oral health issues like tooth decay, dry mouth, and gum disease. Brush your teeth twice and floss at least once a day to keep your smile as healthy as possible.
• Treat Gum Disease: If you have gum disease, you won’t be able to move forward in the dental implant process. It is important that you have this infection treated ahead of time.
• See Your Dentist: Dental checkups are important for all patients, but especially those with diabetes. They will check for existing oral health issues and thoroughly clean your smile to prevent problems in the near future.

If you have diabetes, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t get dental implants. By working with your doctor and dentist, and taking some steps on your own, you will have a restored smile in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Larry Hagen is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over 40 years. He earned his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University and has completed thousands of hours of continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. This includes advanced training in dental implants and whole mouth rehabilitation. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Indiana State Dental Association, and Academy of Laser Dentistry. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Lawrenceburg, visit his website or call (812) 221-1014.