Can I Get a Dental Implant to Replace a Missing Tooth Even If I have Diabetes?

January 30, 2023 by Salt Lake Dental
dental implant

For those living with diabetes, taking care of his or her oral health is essential. Having diabetes can create an increased risk of developing gum disease and other mouth-related issues. Unfortunately, this also means that individuals living with diabetes may be at higher risk for losing teeth as well due to poor oral hygiene or lack of routine visits to the dentist. Dental implants are a great and often preferred option for replacing missing teeth. But the question is, can diabetes impact whether or not someone is eligible to get a dental implant?

Impact of Diabetes on Dental Implants

Having diabetes does not necessarily mean you cannot get a dental implant, but diabetes can affect several aspects of the process. Here are two important areas to consider regarding diabetes and getting dental implants.

1: Oral Health

People with diabetes tend to be at an increased risk for gum disease due to their weakened immune systems, which means they may need additional treatments, such as deep cleanings, before implant surgery. In addition, diabetes affects how quickly the body heals, so any oral surgical procedure may take longer than normal with diabetes.

2: Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining good blood sugar levels is essential for anyone considering a dental implant procedure. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to an increased risk of infection during the implant procedure and impede the healing process afterward. It’s important for individuals with diabetes to make sure that their diabetes is under control before undergoing any oral surgery.

3: Finding a Qualified Implant Dentist

It’s important to find a qualified implant dentist who has experience working with individuals who have diabetes. A qualified dentist can provide personalized care based on your individual needs and diabetes status, which will ensure that the implant procedure is successful.

Conclusion

Although diabetes does not necessarily prevent someone from getting a dental implant, there are certain factors to consider before undergoing any oral surgery. It’s important for individuals with diabetes to make sure that their diabetes is under control before beginning treatment and to find an experienced implant dentist who has experience working with those with diabetes. With the right care and monitoring, someone with diabetes can get a dental implant safely and successfully.

FAQs:

Q: Is diabetes a barrier to getting a dental implant?

A: No, diabetes does not have to be a barrier to getting a dental implant; however, it can affect certain aspects of the process.

Q: How can diabetes affect getting a dental implant?

A: Diabetes can impact oral health, blood sugar levels, and healing times which can all affect the success of an implant procedure. It’s important for individuals with diabetes to be in good control of their diabetes before undergoing any oral surgery.

Q: Do I need to find a special dentist if I have diabetes?

A: Yes, it’s important to find a qualified implant dentist with experience working with those living with diabetes so they can provide personalized care based on your individual needs and diabetes status.