It is no secret that one of the only ways possible to replace your natural teeth with those that look and feel real in your mouth is with dental implants. Even though dental implants are attractive to every type of patient, not every person is the perfect candidate for the surgery. If you have diabetes, dental implants can be a little riskier. However, this does not mean that you absolutely cannot have dental implants if you are indeed diabetic. Here are a few of the most common questions about dental implants and diabetes.

What is it about being diabetic that makes dental implants riskier?

Having diabetes means that you may heal a little slower than what a lot of people do and you may be more prone to infection. Healing after dental implants is crucial because the soft tissue of the mouth must appropriately close in around the new prosthetic tooth. Infection after dental implant placement could prevent the anchors from fusing with the natural bone, which is what is often termed as implant rejection. Erratic blood sugar levels make it difficult for all systems of the body to stay consistent, such as blood circulation and nervous system responses, which contributes to the risk of dental implant failure later on.

If your diabetes is well managed, would you be considered a good candidate for dental implants?

There are several factors considered when a surgeon is deciding if you would be a good candidate for dental implant surgery. For example, your overall oral health, bone structure, and age will all be factors. If you meet the other standards and your diabetes is controlled, you would be more likely to be considered for dental implant surgery, as it is highly likely that implants could be a successful procedure.

How will after care be different with dental implants if you are diabetic?

If you do go ahead with dental implants as a diabetic, you should expect that the dentist will keep a closer eye on you after the surgery. Close supervision will be used to ensure that your mouth is healing properly, and your oral care will be crucial to proper healing. You may also be given antibiotics longer or have to wait for an extended period before the abutments are placed on the newly anchored implants.

The bottom line is, having diabetes does not completely make it impossible for you to have dental implants. If you are diabetic, and you think dental implants could be the best decision for you, talk openly with a dentist (such as Benjamin D Hull DDS) about your options.