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My Dentist Says that an Implant Denture Won’t Work for Me

I have lost all but three of my lower teeth and agree with my dentist that it’s time for a complete denture. I asked about an implant denture, but my dentist said that implants will be too risky for me because I have diabetes and my bone level is low. I read online that if your diabetes is under control, you can qualify for implants. Why would my dentist say that I do not qualify without any proof? Thank you. Gabe from Amityville, NY

Gabe,

Thank you for your question.

Dr. Goebel would need to review your medical history, examine your oral tissue, and take a 3-D CT scan to measure your bone volume to determine whether you are a candidate for an implant overdenture, or a fixed denture.

Do Diabetes and Bone Shrinkage Disqualify You from Dental Implants?

Implant overdenture with four implant screws hovering above the denture
Four dental implant screws secure this overdenture

Diabetes and bone shrinkage do not automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants. People with diabetes heal slower, so it may take longer for your jawbone to integrate with your dental implants. If you need bone grafting, the procedure will precede dental implant placement. Your implant dentist or an oral surgeon will give you detailed instructions for oral hygiene and promoting healing after your procedures.

The Journal of Pharmacy and BioAllied Sciences published a 2021 article on a study of forty-six dental implant patients. Results show that patients with good glycemic control had similar implant survival rates at patients without diabetes. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes had a higher rate of implant failure.

Other factors that may impair healing and dental implant longevity include:

  • Inconsistent oral health habits
  • Tobacco use
  • Osteoporosis
  • History of gum disease

Request a Consultation

If you would like to know whether you qualify for dental implants, request a consultation with a restoring dentist, an oral surgeon, or a periodontist. After reviewing your medical history, completing an exam, and taking digital x-rays, they will explain whether you are a candidate for implants and discuss your options for implant overdentures.

Moline, Illinois dentist, Dr. Thomas Goebel, sponsors this post.