Dental Implants and Diabetes?
Posted by writeradmin
I lost a tooth and need to replace it. I asked my dentist about a dental implant. He hinted that because I have diabetes, I may not be the best candidate for it. I guess that means my best option is a dental bridge, but was hoping to avoid this. Is there any way for a diabetic to get a dental implant with some special procedures?
Carl
Dear Carl,
I am glad you wrote. A dental implant is a great choice for a tooth replacement. Having diabetes does not mean that you cannot have a dental implant, but there are greater risks. You won’t need any extra procedures in order to get it, but it will be important that you have extra diagnostics and careful care and observation throughout the procedure.
You will want to make sure you have someone with a high level of expertise and training in dental implants do your procedure. Dental school is not enough. You want them to have post-doctoral training in placing them as well of a success rate of at least 95%.
The fact that your dentist was steering you away from implants tells me that he is not as comfortable. Do not pressure him into it. This is an advanced procedure and you have more risk factors than most. You do not want him in over his head and you ending up with a dental implant horror story.
It is totally acceptable to go to another dentist to have the implant done, while your family dentist still oversees your normal dental care. If the dentist who you decide on sends you to an oral surgeon for the placement, it is extremely important that your implant dentist determines the placement and not the surgeon. Don’t do it the other way around.
I hope this helps. Don’t short cut the diagnostics.
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