If you are living with diabetes, we understand the difficulties you face. Diabetics are more prone to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. To replace missing teeth, we recommend dental implants as the most permanent and effective method. Our practice has helped countless patients in the Missouri City, Richmond, TX, and Fort Bend County areas by placing dental implants.
Given the prevalence of diabetes in America, many Fort Bend Dental patients ask if diabetics can get dental implants. The answer is a resounding yes. Learn more about how people with diabetes can get dental implants with proper care and management.
Dental Implants and the Risk of Diabetes
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots embedded into the jaw bone. The implant fuses with the bone structure in a process called osseointegration. You need to be able to heal properly following surgery for the implant to be stable. This is where strict guidelines for managing diabetes come into play.
High blood sugar can lead to a weakened immune system, which means that diabetics are often more prone to infection. If diabetes is not being managed properly, there is a higher risk of post-op infections and inflammation. This can ultimately lead to dental implant failure.
Diabetes and Gum Disease
Diabetics often have to contend with gum disease as a result of their high blood sugar. Both gingivitis and periodontitis can have a negative impact on the success of dental implant treatment. Maintaining proper gum health is crucial for a successful implant surgery. Gum tissue supports dental implants, and inflamed or infected gums pose a risk to their integrity.
Which type of diabetes do you have?
Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes will increase a person’s risk of dental implant complications. That said, but type 1 diabetics definitely have it harder. This does not mean that those with type 1 diabetes are ineligible for implants, but they will typically have stricter guidelines on their health.
How manageable is your diabetes?
The success of dental implants depends on how well your diabetes is being managed. Studies have shown that those with their diabetes under control were more likely to experience successful dental implant treatment without complications. This means being mindful of your blood sugar and taking medications and injections seriously.
Diabetes and Age
Older diabetics are at greater risk for complications after dental implant surgery than younger diabetics. This is why we recommended getting dental implants sooner rather than later in some patients. Dental implant failure due to infection or improper healing is more likely with older people fighting diabetes for a long period of time. Proper management of diabetes helps increase the chances of successful treatment.
Diabetes Management and Good Oral Hygiene
With all of these issues in mind, here are the ways that diabetics can avoid dental implant failure and undergo safe treatment:
- Monitor and control blood sugar levels
- Follow your doctor’s orders regarding medication
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
- Stay active and exercise regularly
- Brush and floss regularly
- See your dentist twice a year for regular checkups
Contact Us for a Consultation
If you are diabetic and interested in getting dental implants, we would be happy to help. Send us a message online or give us a call at (281) 499-3541 to schedule an appointment today.
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