41% of the Hawaiian population has prediabetes. While one may not immediately link diabetes with oral health, they do have a connection. Various dental concerns can arise from diabetes. Recent studies have shown a strong link between the development of periodontal diseases and diabetes. It can also increase the risk of tooth loss.
Whether you lose a tooth due to diabetes or another reason, it is important to understand if a diabetic patient is a candidate for dental implants Oahu. If you do undergo the treatment, what are the possible risks and complications? Schedule a consultation session with your dentist today to know your options.
Can diabetics get dental implants
Yes. Even though there are some risks associated with diabetics getting implants, individuals with type 1 or 2 diabetes still receive them. As long as you can maintain your health and prevent your condition from becoming extreme, you most likely won’t face complications.
During the consultation process, your dentist can assess your condition and make suggestions regarding the treatment you choose. It is good to take your medical reports with you so they get a clear picture of your health and health history. This will increase your chances of receiving successful treatment.
Is your diabetes under control?
Diabetes does not affect your ability to get dental implants. However, uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of infections and implant failure.
Implants are screwed into your jawbone and rely on your body’s natural healing ability. This titanium screw serves as the anchor for the artificial tooth that is later attached to it. When diabetes patients have high blood sugar levels, optimal healing levels are challenging to achieve. Hence, it is recommended that you maintain your health before considering implants.
Here are some symptoms that show an uncontrolled diabetic condition:
- Dryness of mouth
- Frequent urination
- Itching around genitals
- Pain or burning with urination
- Sudden weight loss
- Increased bouts of hunger
- Increased thirst
- Frequent infections in the body
Risks and precautions a diabetic patient should be aware of
Here are some obstacles that may come in the way of a diabetic patient wanting a dental implant:
Healing of wounds
It is important for your body to have stable glucose and sugar levels in your bloodstream for your wounds to heal. The patient’s blood sugar levels must be monitored very closely, especially during the sensitive phase of healing.
Decreased bone formation
In diabetes, calcium absorption and the production of bone-forming cells are weakened. A diabetic patient’s body faces Vitamin D production issues, which is essential for carrying calcium into the bloodstream. Therefore, it hinders bone production, which is necessary for the healing of dental implants.
Restricted immune defense
In diabetics, high blood sugar levels weaken the body’s defense against infections from bacteria, viruses, and fungi. There are higher risks of infections going unnoticed. As a diabetic patient, you must work to strengthen your immune system.
Something diabetic patients need to do
Although diabetes can affect the candidacy of an individual for dental implants, dentists thoroughly assess the medical history of an individual to determine if they are the right candidate. Patients who are able to control their condition and maintain a healthy lifestyle can qualify for the treatment. Post-operative care is also a big factor in the treatment’s success.
Along with controlling and monitoring your diabetes, you must also make sure that you eat a healthy and well-balanced diet. You should not be into habits like drinking and smoking. Most importantly, you must adopt a good oral hygiene routine that you must religiously stick to.
