Wounds heal poorly in diabetic patients, making them high risk candidates for surgery. A diabetic who wish to have his teeth restored through implants will have to ensure that his blood sugar is controlled. In this case, he may be treated like a regular, healthy patient. Otherwise, a bone graft can be life threatening if the diabetes is uncontrolled. Treatment for diabetes should be a priority before undergoing dental restoration procedures.
A basic test whether a diabetic patient is a candidate for dental implant is the A1c or glycated hemoglobin test. An A1c level of 7% or less is a good indicator. An elevated A1c is an indication of poorly controlled diabetes.