Impact of diabetes and prediabetes on dental implant success: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Dental implants are a standard solution for tooth loss, but their success is influenced by systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and prediabetes. These conditions can affect bone metabolism, immune function, and wound healing, all essential for implant integration and stability. This narrative review examines the impact of DM and prediabetes on dental implant outcomes, focusing on osseointegration, peri-implant health, implant survival, and post-surgical complications.

DM, including Type 1 and Type 2, is characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to insulin dysfunction. Poor glycemic control can lead to delayed bone healing, impaired osseointegration, and higher rates of implant failure and peri-implantitis. On the other hand, well-controlled diabetes does not appear to affect implant success significantly. Prediabetes, marked by elevated blood glucose levels, shows associations with inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, which could also affect implant outcomes.

Osseointegration, the process by which implants fuse with bone, can be compromised in poorly controlled diabetics. Peri-implantitis, a condition marked by inflammation and bone loss around dental implants, is more frequently observed in diabetic patients, especially those with inadequate glycemic control. Additionally, bone augmentation procedures may experience delayed healing in diabetics.

In summary, although well-managed diabetes has little effect on the success of dental implants, insufficiently controlled diabetes and prediabetes elevate the likelihood of complications, including implant failure and peri-implantitis. Effective glycemic management and close monitoring are essential for improving implant success in these patients. Further research is needed to develop optimal management strategies for diabetic and prediabetic patients undergoing dental implant treatment.