Implants for Diabetics: The HbA1c Threshold
Implants are routine in controlled diabetes. Here's the HbA1c number that matters.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Rashid
Medical Director
The threshold
- Under 7%: excellent candidate
- 7–8%: good candidate with monitoring
- 8–10%: optimise diabetes first
- Over 10%: implants deferred
Why it matters
Poorly controlled diabetes slows healing and increases infection risk 2–3×. Well-controlled diabetes has implant outcomes equivalent to non-diabetics.
Pre-op
- Recent HbA1c
- Physician clearance if above 8%
- Review diabetes medications
- Consider antibiotic prophylaxis
Post-op
- Stricter hygiene
- More frequent follow-ups
- Hygiene every 3 months
Long-term
Absolute success rates within 2 percentage points of non-diabetics when well controlled.
References
- Journal of Clinical Periodontology
- International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Referenced sources
- Journal of Clinical Periodontology
- International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Medical disclaimer. This article is informational and does not replace professional clinical advice. For a plan specific to your situation, book a consultation with a Paradise Dental specialist.
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