If you’ve suffered from tooth loss in the past, you know just how difficult it can be to complete daily tasks you once found easy – like chewing your food, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence. The good news is that there are various tooth replacement options out there that can give you your smile back, including dental implants. However, if you are diabetic, you may be wondering if this will be a hurdle in the way. Continue reading 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 a dental implant failure for a variety of reasons. They 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 have a dental implant failure. An infection around the site of an implant can ultimately lead to complications. Diabetes is also able to 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 implants.
- Excellent Oral Health: Diabetes 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 this 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 taking some steps on your own, you will have a restored smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Jason Hong earned his dental doctorate from the prestigious New York University College of Dentistry. Since then, he has completed more than 300 hours of continuing education. Currently, he is a proud Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Clarendon Hills, visit his website or call (630) 789-1555.