Why It May Be Possible For Diabetics To Have Dental Implants
One of the most difficult aspects of our work at Dental O So Gentle is having to tell some patients that, as things stand, they are unsuitable for dental implants. This can occur for a number of reasons, but it is normally due to either extremely poor oral health or an underlying medical condition that makes the likelihood of their dental implant procedure being a success unlikely.
One of the medical conditions that we often come across in our patients is diabetes. A possible reason for this is the ever-increasing occurrence of diabetes among adults that seems to be occurring, not just in Australia but around the world. Of course, we must point out that increase refers to Type 2 diabetes, which is often brought on by lifestyle and dietary issues, and not Type 1 diabetes, which is usually diagnosed in individuals who were born with the condition.
Apart from all the ways in which a diabetic has to live their life somewhat differently with regards to specific diets, avoidance of certain foods and drinks, testing their blood sugar levels, regular tests at medical centres, and taking their medication every day, those who are diabetic can also suffer from additional medical problems, especially if their diabetes is poorly controlled.
Those last two words, ‘poorly controlled’ are absolutely key when it comes to many issues which diabetics may have to contend with, because many additional problems are minimised and even halted if blood sugar levels are kept under control. That includes some of the medical conditions which directly impact upon an individual’s suitability for dental implants.
Some of the medical conditions that can occur or be accelerated by poor blood sugar control, and which subsequently can mean a person is unsuitable for dental implants, are as follows:
High Blood Pressure
Although this might not seem directly related to your teeth or jaws, any person with high blood pressure, especially if it’s extremely high, is at more risk of complications if they undergo any type of medical procedure including the minor surgery hat takes place during the fitting of dental implants. They are more prone to heart attacks and strokes, and normally would need to lower their blood pressure before being considered for dental implant treatment.
Compromised Immunity
One of the biggest risks that diabetics face, specially if they fail to keep their blood sugar well controlled, is that their immune system is weakened. This means any time they suffer a cut, or, as in the case of dental implants, they have a surgical incision, they are at a far higher risk of infection than those who do not have diabetes, and whose immune system works normally.
Gum Disease
When you have more sugar in your blood then it can also mean that there is more sugar present in your saliva. This causes increased bacteria within your mouth which creates acid, and this is what brings about damage to your teeth and to your gums. This can damage your gums to the extent that dental implants may not be recommended.
Weakened Bones
Increased sugar levels can have a negative impact on the health of our bones, with a condition called osteoporosis often prevalent in those who have diabetes which is poorly controlled. Compromised bone health can mean that your jawbone does not retain sufficient strength and integrity which the dental implants require to render them fixed and secure.
And Now The Good News
We must finish on a positive and say that simply because you have either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it does not automatically exclude you from having dental implants. If you have good control of your blood sugar levels then the issues we have just outlined may not exist or be at a level which would mean you are unsuitable. You will need to discuss this with your dental implant practitioner, but with good blood sugar control, it could bring good news about dental implants.