Can I have a dental implant as a diabetic?
Can a diabetic patient have an implant? Yes: well-managed, well-controlled diabetes is no longer a reason to rule out dental implants nowadays. The key is a stable blood sugar level, because untreated, fluctuating diabetes slows down wound healing and the integration of the implant into the bone. That is why treatment is always preceded by a thorough examination and consultation with your treating doctor.
Why does the blood sugar level matter for implants?
The success of an implant depends on whether the titanium artificial root integrates stably into the jawbone. A persistently high blood sugar level impairs the blood supply to the tissues and the immune response, which means slower wound healing and a higher risk of inflammation. With stable levels, however, diabetic patients achieve good implant results.
What can you expect during the treatment?
- Examination: a dental CT scan and a detailed consultation, which includes a review of your general state of health and medication.
- Consultation with the diabetologist: if necessary, we will ask your treating doctor for feedback on the timing of the procedure.
- Placement: the course of the surgery is the same as that customary for non-diabetic patients, and is carried out under local anaesthetic. You can read about the procedure for placement here.
- Closer follow-up: more frequent check-ups, with particular attention paid to wound healing and oral hygiene.
What can you do to ensure successful integration?
- maintain the levels set by your diabetologist before and after the surgery
- take extra care with your oral hygiene, and attend regular for scaling
- do not smoke; smoking is in itself one of the main risks to integration
- report any unusual symptoms (swelling, bleeding, pain) as soon as possible
Frequently asked questions
Is insulin-dependent diabetes a reason to rule it out?
Not in itself. The decisive factor is the stability of the blood sugar level, not the method of treatment. The precise answer is provided by an individual examination.
How much does an implant cost?
We have summarised the prices and the components of the total cost on the dental implant prices page.
Are you a diabetic considering an implant? Request a free consultation: +36 (20) 527-5547
