Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Dental Implants
One of the most common questions we hear from patients at Perio Vital Clinic is: “Can I still get dental implants if I have diabetes?” The short answer is yes — but with important considerations. For patients living with diabetes, especially type 2, dental health requires extra care, and surgical procedures like implants must be approached with precision and planning.
Dr. Ilse Lugo, periodontist and founder of Perio Vital, has helped many diabetic patients restore their smiles safely and successfully through customized implant treatments. In this article, she explains the connection between diabetes and oral health, and how implant procedures can still be safe and effective with the right approach.
How Diabetes Affects Oral Health
Diabetes can impact your body’s ability to heal, regulate blood sugar, and fight infections — all factors that are important when undergoing a dental implant procedure. High blood glucose levels can lead to dry mouth, increased risk of gum disease, and slower wound healing, which are all concerns when placing implants into the jawbone.
That said, patients with well-controlled diabetes typically respond to implants just as well as non-diabetic patients. The key lies in preoperative planning, blood sugar control, and personalized follow-up care.
Implant Safety for Diabetic Patients
At Perio Vital Clinic, every diabetic patient is carefully screened before any surgical procedure. We assess HbA1c levels (average blood sugar over 3 months), current medications, history of gum disease, and overall systemic health.
When diabetes is well-managed, the risk of complications is significantly reduced. In fact, recent studies show that implant success rates in controlled diabetics are over 90%, which is very close to the general population.
To further support healing and integration, Dr. Lugo may recommend:
- Pre-surgical antibiotics if appropriate
- Chlorhexidine rinses to reduce bacteria
- Shorter follow-up intervals to monitor healing
- Nutritional guidance for optimal immune function
What to Expect During the Process
The implant procedure itself doesn’t differ much for diabetic patients. What changes is the level of planning and monitoring involved. Healing time may be slightly longer, and patients are encouraged to maintain excellent home care routines to avoid peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant).
Dr. Lugo’s team ensures diabetic patients are not only medically prepared but also emotionally supported throughout the process. Questions are encouraged, and each treatment plan is built around the patient’s specific needs and goals.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Get Implants — If You’re Informed and Prepared
If you live with diabetes and are considering dental implants, don’t assume it’s off the table. With proper medical coordination and a specialist who understands the risks and precautions, implant therapy can dramatically improve your confidence, chewing function, and quality of life.
Schedule a consultation at Perio Vital Clinic today and let Dr. Ilse Lugo help you find out if you’re a candidate for safe, successful dental implants — even with diabetes.
