Can a Diabetic Have Dental Implants?

Dental implants, one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for the treatment of tooth loss, offer great advantages to patients in terms of aesthetics and functionality. However, individuals with systemic diseases such as diabetes may have some concerns about implant applications. So, can diabetics have dental implants?

Effects of Diabetes on Oral and Dental Health

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s production or use of insulin. High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, slow down healing processes, and increase the risk of infection. In terms of oral health, diabetes can lead to serious problems such as gum disease (periodontitis), dry mouth, and tooth loss. Therefore, people with diabetes should take extra care of their oral and dental health.

Is It Possible for Diabetics to Have Implants?

It is certainly possible for diabetic patients to receive implant treatment,but some important conditions must be met. The most basic condition is that diabetes is under control. Long-term blood sugar levels determined by the HbA1c test are evaluated for suitability for implant treatment. Patients with an HbA1c value below 7% are generally considered suitable for implant treatment.

Successful Implant Process with Controlled Diabetes

The success rate of implant treatment in individuals with controlled diabetes is almost the same as in healthy individuals. However, there are some points to consider during the treatment process:

• Detailed Planning: The dentist evaluates the patient's general health, blood sugar levels and oral conditions in detail.
• Sterile Work: Because the risk of infection is high, the procedure must be performed in a completely sterile environment.
• Attention to the Healing Process: The healing process may be a little longer for people with diabetes. During this process, the doctor's recommendations should be followed exactly.
• Regular Checkups: After treatment, regular dental check-ups are essential to detect any problems that may occur in the implant area early.

Unsuitable Situations

Implant treatment can be risky in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, that is, individuals whose blood sugar levels are constantly high. Bone healing slows down in these individuals, the risk of infection increases, and the probability of the implant not taking hold increases. Therefore, diabetes must first be controlled with medical treatment.

Having diabetes is not an obstacle to dental implants. However, for success, it is very important to manage diabetes well, work with an experienced dentist and have regular follow-ups. If you have diabetes and are considering implant treatment, you should definitely consult a dentist and have a personalized evaluation. With the right planning, it is possible to have healthy, aesthetic and long-lasting teeth.

This text is intended to provide general information. The appropriate treatment method for each patient may vary, and therefore, a dentist who is an expert in the field should be consulted. Before making any decision regarding dental health, it is of great importance that you have a detailed examination and consultation with your physician. These articles are for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.