Impact of diabetes mellitus on the stabilization and osseointegration of dental implants: a retrospective study in Greece

IntroductionAdequate dental restoration including the use of implants is critical in healthy eating habits of diabetic patients and appropriate metabolic control. AimTo investigate the relationship between diabetes mellitus and dental implants stabilization and osseointegration. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted in a private dental clinic in Athens. Data collection referred to the period between January 2016 and August 2021. During this time period, all cases related to implant placement in diabetic patients at the clinic were recorded. In particular, 93 implants were recorded in 36 diabetic patients. During the same time period, 93 implant cases involving non-diabetics at the clinic were randomly taken from the clinic records to provide the comparison group. The implant stability quotient was measured immediately after implant placement and after four months. ResultsThe mean value of the implant stability quotient immediately after implant placement was 75.97 in non-diabetics and 76.85 in diabetics (p=0.42). The mean value of the implant stability quotient after four months was 78.92 in non-diabetics and 78.44 in diabetics (p=0.58). The mean value of the implant stability quotient in non-diabetics increased statistically significantly in the first four months from 75.97 to 78.92 (p<0.001). The mean value of the implant stability quotient in diabetics increased statistically significantly in the first four months from 76.85 to 78.44 (p=0.011). No implant loss was recorded in both diabetics and non-diabetics (p=1). According to multivariate analysis, patients who did not have bio-materials placed during implantation, patients who had not undergone previous surgical procedures and patients who had implants placed in the mandible had better implant stability. ConclusionsThe stability of the implants increased statistically significant in the first four months of implant placement. No relationship was found between diabetes mellitus and dental implants stabilization and osseointegration. However, studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up of patients are needed to better clarify the risks and benefits of dental implants in diabetic patients.