Dental implants can noticeably improve the health and quality of life of people with missing teeth. People who are used to wearing dentures will especially appreciate the convenience and comfort of implants. But can people with diabetes get dental implants? In this article, we discuss the advantages of this method of dental restoration for people with diabetes.
Can People with Diabetes Get Dental Implants?
Patients with diabetes can get dental implants. In fact, implants can benefit people with diabetes in multiple ways:
- Dental implants can improve nutrition by making it easier and more convenient to enjoy a variety of foods. Implants can offer up to 90% of the natural biting force, while dentures offer only up to 20%. By being able to chew harder foods rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and meats, diabetic people can maintain a balanced diet and boost the amount of essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins they receive with food, thus better supporting their general health and immunity.
- Dental implants can help eliminate infections and irritation in the mouth that traditional dentures might cause. Dentures that rely on gums for support might shift and slide in the mouth when chewing and speaking, often rubbing the gums and causing pain or soreness. Since implants use metal posts fused with the jawbone, there is no risk of this dental restoration moving in the mouth in any way.
- Replacing decayed teeth with dental implants will also eliminate chronic infection in the mouth. On top of that, it can improve general health as well, since oral infections are associated with gastrointestinal, joint, heart, and lung issues.
Health Requirements to Get Dental Implants
The first requirement for getting dental implants for people with diabetes is that the condition is in a controlled state with stable test results. This requirement is based on the fact that dental implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone and have to fuse with it afterward. For this process to be successful, the body should have sufficient capacity for healing and regeneration. Otherwise, there might be a risk of dental implants failing or the gums and jawbone becoming infected. However, studies show that patients with controlled diabetes can go through the process successfully without side effects, even though they might require additional pre and post-surgery care.
Also, getting dental implants requires a healthy jawbone and gums. If gum disease is present, it will have to be treated before the patient can have the surgery. There are cases when the jawbone has lost its density due to the patient missing teeth for a long time or other health considerations. In such situations, your dentist will most likely recommend bone grafting—the procedure that helps to restore the jawbone structure and to prepare it for receiving dental implants.
Dental Implant Surgery Outlook
As we mentioned before, placing dental implants is a surgical procedure. Before the procedure can begin, your dentist will conduct a careful examination of the state of your jawbone and gums and your general health. In cases of diabetes, your dentist will most likely work in cooperation with the doctor who monitors this issue to determine if implants are safe for you
A dental implant consists of a metal post that resembles a screw and a dental crown that uses the post for support. During the surgery, your dentist will make incisions in the gum to get access to the jawbone. Then, the implant is placed directly into the jawbone. A dental implant surgery is performed using a local anesthetic or general anesthesia if required. Other forms of sedation can also be used.
With time, the metal post fuses with the bone and acts similarly to the roots of a natural tooth. The healing process might take several months to be fully complete. The time required for healing depends on how well and fast your body can regenerate, and it might be different for each patient.
Once your dentist considers the metal posts secure and stable in the jawbone, you can proceed to the next step—dental crown placement. Modern dental crowns are typically made of porcelain, which looks very natural in the mouth. On top of that, porcelain is a stain-resistant and durable material that can serve you for years to come.
Get Dental Implants at Dental Care of Pomona
Do not hesitate to sign up for a consultation with an experienced dentist at Dental Care of Pomona if you are considering dental implants. Our specialist will examine your oral and general health to determine if dental implants will be a suitable and beneficial option for you. We look forward to your visit.
