Dental Implants and Diabetes
If you have diabetes, you know that there is more to manage than simply your blood sugar. A1C control, glucose level monitoring, as well as circulatory issues and secondary complications can all be a point of concern. If you are living with Diabetes, can you still receive Dental Implants?
Yes, You can absolutely receive Dental implants. In fact, studies show that Implants are a beneficial choice for Diabetics who are having issues with their teeth.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease which that you are either born with or develop over time. In diabetes either the patient does not have th ability to produce insulin, or there body has developed in a way that production of insulin is restricted or halted completely. The term Diabetes Mellitus, the scientific name for Diabetes, translates to “honey siphon.” This is due to the fact that glucose stability issues can lead to dehydration and thick “sweet smelling” urine. When you are prediabetic or new to living with diabetes, you learn to recognize the physiological symptoms of hyper- and hypo-glycemia. Intense, unquenchable thirst is one of the most recognizable symptoms. Learning the symptoms and recognizing blood sugar levels impact on your body will help to manage your diabetes, and lower your A1C. If you can consistently control your diabetes, and manage it appropriately, you will set yourself up for healthier outlook and an easier time getting Dental Implants.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
The type of diabetes you have may affect your outlook for Dental Implants. The overall concern is if your diabetes in not managed well, your immune system is more compromised, and you physically take longer to heal. This can prolong the process of Dental Implants, and can leave you open to infections. Type 1 Diabetes is typically more difficult to manage effectively. It certainly can be managed, but your dental health professional will be more thorough with testing and monitoring your total health and health history.
Diabetic Management
If you diabetes is managed properly, studies indicate that there is no greater risk of complications than any other patient for Dental Implants. Likewise, patients with poorly managed Diabetes show a higher chance of having to fight off postoperative infections and failed implants.
Your age and the amount of time you have managed your diabetes will also affect your options. Implants are most successful when the jaw and skeletomuscular system are fully developed and healthy. If you have a history of infections, an underdeveloped on immature jaw, or any secondary condition which lengthens your recovery, additional care and steps may need to be taken before Dental Implants are involved. A1C is measurement of your ability to consistently manage your blood glucose levels. This will be an important factor in your dental professionals complete evaluation of your health and whether or not Dental Implants are the right choice now.
The Benefits of Implants for Individuals with Diabetes
Dental Implants are perfectly safe for Diabetics. Having dental implants can help to maintain a balanced diet, and allow patients to enjoy the healthy and whole foods that fit their dietary needs. Dental implants can also help Diabetics avoid the complications and infection that are common with Dentures.
If your Dental Care Team approves a Dental Implant, what is the process like?
If your Dentist and Implant team review your health history and feel confident in your ability to handle the procedure, the process will begin. After running initial tests, Xrays, and reviewing your complete health history, you will go in for your surgery. If your jaw is underdeveloped or there is a lack of jaw material for anchor, you may have a preliminary bone grafting to offer opportunity for osseointegration. Osseointegration is the process of allowing your jaw and bone structure to accept a modification, whether it is bone grafting or a Dental Implant Anchor.
- A surgeon will drill a space and insert the Dental Implant Anchor. At this point, there will be a gap for healing. It can take up to 6 months, and will depend on how your body reacts. This is why your overall health is so important. Your body will need to respond to the anchor and integrate it, giving your implant strength and security in your jaw. You should have consistent contact with your dentist and implant team to review your osseointegration progress and dental health while you wait.
- Once the Anchor is secure, somewhere around 6 months after the initial surgery, a healing cap may be placed–or a temporary crown. This will help to ensure the abutment, the screw that attaches the implants to the anchor, will secure properly.
- Once your Dentist feels confident in the security of your anchor and abutment, your implant can be anchored. There are many options, including permanent and semi permanent implants. You can also consult with your Dentist on temporary options while you wait for your jaw and surgical areas to heal.
Caring for your Implants
When you receive your implants, a dental hygienist should be part of your implant team. They should be able to guide you through all the nuances of care for your implant, and keep you scheduled for regular checkups and cleanings. Your implants should be treated like teeth, for the most part. You are still responsible for
- Maintaining your Implants- Stay vigilant and report any problems or failure of your implants. The materials used are strong, so breaks and chips are rare, but they do happen. Immediately report any looseness. Stay wary of signs of infection.
- Brushing regularly- At least two times a day, and frequently after meals. An electric toothbrush may be recommended, as well as particular toothpaste.
- Flossing frequently- Flossing is a healthy habit that is easy to maintain, once you have accepted the process. Bleeding is common, and gum infections are very common. This is one of the big steps to help monitor and prevent gum disease.
Whatever the outcome is, place your health and happiness as the core concern. If it is not the right time for implants, first focus on diet and nutrition and managing your diabetes. You will be surprised how fast healthy decisions become healthy habits. Managing Diabetes is a full time job, but your dietician, endocrinologist, and dental implant team can help guide you to desired outcomes.