Dental implants for Hashimoto's patients: 3 things you should know

- March 22, 1403 - Implant -

How are dental implants for Hashimoto patients? Hashimoto's disease, or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland and often leads to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). This disease is characterized by the production of antibodies that attack thyroid cells, which eventually leads to decreased production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones are essential for regulating the body's metabolism and have wide-ranging effects on general health, including bone health and wound healing. Dental implants are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, which involves placing a metal post (usually titanium) in the jaw to support an artificial tooth. However, patients with certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, may be concerned about the impact of the disease on implant success. This report provides a comprehensive review of dental implants for Hashimoto's patients, detailing pre- and post-treatment procedures, surgical procedures, and aftercare. ### Background of Hashimoto's disease and dental implants for Hashimoto's patients Hashimoto's disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism and is more common in middle-aged women. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and hair loss. Research has shown that hypothyroidism can affect bone metabolism, which may affect the process of implant integration (osseointegration). However, recent studies have shown that patients with thyroid disorders can have dental implants with similar success rates as healthy patients. ### Pre-treatment measures Before dental implant surgery for Hashimoto's patients, they should do the following: - **Consultation with an endocrinologist**: to ensure that the thyroid function is stable and it may be necessary to adjust the dose of drugs such as levothyroxine (T4). For example, in one study, different doses such as 75 mg per week and 100 mg per weekend have been reported (Patients with Thyroid Disorder, a Contraindication for Dental Implants? A Systematic Review). - **Informing the dentist**: Hashimoto's disease and the drugs used, including thyroid drugs, should be reported to the dentist so that the appropriate treatment and anesthesia plan can be set. **Complete oral and dental examination**: The dentist evaluates the health of the gums, jawbone, and the overall condition of the mouth to make sure the patient is a suitable candidate for implants. - **Discussion of risks and benefits**: The patient should discuss with the dentist about the possible benefits and risks, including a possible delay in recovery. > What are the causes of swelling after dental implants? > > In this article, we will examine the causes of inflation, its duration, and ways to manage it. ### Can Hashimoto's patients get implants? Yes, research shows that Hashimoto's patients can have dental implants, provided the disease is under control. A systematic review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that implant success rates in patients with thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism, were similar to those in patients without these disorders. The average success rate for patients with hypothyroidism has been reported to be between 93.18% and 100%, while for hyperthyroidism it may be lower (between 45.45% and 100%). > Dental implant welding time > > This article examines the time required for welding, signs of success and failure, methods of speeding up the process, and treatment options in case of failure. ### Treatment steps in Hashimoto's patients Dental implant surgery procedures for Hashimoto patients are similar to other patients: 1. **Anesthesia**: local anesthesia is used and, if needed, sedation is given for the patient's comfort. 2. **Incision**: The dentist makes an incision in the gum to access the jawbone. 3. **Drilling**: Using a drill, a precise hole is created in the jaw bone. 4. **Placing the implant**: The implant is placed in the hole and fixed. 5. **Suture**: The gum is sutured to cover the implant. Patients should inform the dentist of their medications, including thyroid medications, as they may affect the healing process or interact with anesthesia. > Why do we need CBCT for implants? > > In this article, we want to fully answer your questions about CBCT imaging. ### How is the surgery of these people? Surgery for Hashimoto's patients is usually no different than for others, but due to the potential effect of hypothyroidism on bone metabolism, careful disease management is essential. Research shows that patients with hypothyroidism may have less bone loss around the implant, which can be positive (The Effect of Hypothyroidism on Bone Loss at Dental Implants). However, wound healing may be slower, so patients should take special care. ### What actions should they take? After surgery, patients should: - **follow post-operative instructions**: including taking prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or painkillers, and maintaining oral and dental hygiene. - **Management of thyroid disease**: regular use of thyroid medication, such as levothyroxine, and regular checkups with an endocrinologist. - **Special attention to oral health**: Autoimmune disorders may increase the risk of gum disease and infections, so regular brushing, flossing, and periodic visits to the dentist are essential. > Osteoporosis for dental implants > > Osteoporosis creates challenges for dental implant placement. What are these challenges? ### Care after treatment Post-treatment care for Hashimoto's patients is the same as for other patients, but due to the higher risk of oral problems associated with autoimmune disorders, extra care may be required: - **Healing period**: allowing enough time for the implant to integrate with the jawbone, which usually takes several months. - **regular follow-up**: participating in follow-up sessions to monitor the healing process and ensure the proper functioning of the implant. - **Oral and dental hygiene**: using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, and avoiding the use of cleaning tools that may damage the implant site until complete recovery. - **Avoid certain activities**: Smoking should be avoided, as it can interfere with healing, and chewing hard foods or using the implant area should be avoided until complete healing. ###