If you have suffered from tooth loss in the past, you know how difficult it can be to complete daily tasks you once found easy. This includes chewing your food, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence. Fortunately, there are a variety of tooth replacement options out there to help you get your smile back – like dental implants. However, if you are diabetic, you might be wondering if this will be a hurdle in the way. Read on to learn more about getting dental implants when you have diabetes.
Why Are Diabetics at Higher Risk for Dental Implant Failure?
People who have diabetes are more likely to experience dental implant failure for a variety of reasons. Diabetics 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 experience have a dental implant failure. An infection around the site of an implant can ultimately lead to complications. Diabetes can also 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 You Promote Dental Implant Success
Fortunately, there are many steps you can take as someone with diabetes to reduce your chances of experiencing 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 dental implants.
- Excellent Oral Health: Diabetics 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 the infection treated ahead of time.
- See Your Dentist: Dental checkups are important for all patients, but especially those who have 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 mean that you can’t get dental implants. By working with your doctor and dentist, and by taking some steps on your own, you will have a restored smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Brong earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of California, San Francisco. Since then, he has been committed to advanced education and training opportunities. Currently, he is a proud member of the Minnesota Dental Association, American Dental Association, and SPEAR Education. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Rochester, visit his website or call (507) 288-1066.
