The Potential Risk: Evaluation of HbA1c Levels Prior to Dental Implant Surgery in Patients Without a Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus.

This article focuses on evaluating glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients without a prior diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM) who exhibit oral symptoms suggestive of DM before undergoing dental implant surgery. In a retrospective cohort of 43 patients presenting oral signs such as xerostomia and delayed wound healing, 41.8% were newly diagnosed with DM and 30.2% with prediabetes (preDM) based on HbA1c testing, leading to postponement of surgical procedures until glycemic control was achieved. The study found no significant correlation between specific oral symptoms and HbA1c levels but highlights the importance of preoperative HbA1c assessment to identify undiagnosed DM, given its impact on wound healing, implant survival, and risk of complications. The authors recommend that oral and maxillofacial surgeons consider HbA1c screening in patients with oral manifestations before dental implant placement to improve patient outcomes and facilitate early DM diagnosis.