Abstract

Dental implant (DI) therapy is widely used to restore function and appearance; yet many patients present with systemic conditions that might affect outcomes. Diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease can hinder bone healing and osseointegration, potentially influencing long-term DI success. This study aimed to conduct a narrative review of implant success and risk factors in patients with systemic conditions. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Search terms included “dental implant,” “systemic disease,” “medically compromised,” “diabetes mellitus,” “osteoporosis,” and “immunocompromised.” Studies were included if they reported implant survival, marginal bone loss, or peri-implant complications in patients with systemic conditions. Across the literature, implant survival rates remained high in patients with systemic conditions, often over 90% to 95% when systemic conditions were controlled. Patients with diabetes who achieved good glycemic control demonstrated outcomes comparable to healthy individuals, whereas poor metabolic regulation was associated with peri-implantitis and greater bone loss. Osteoporosis did not appear to reduce implant survival, although small increases in marginal bone loss were reported. DIs are a valid option for patients with systemic conditions. Long-term success depends on individualized evaluation, optimization of systemic health, appropriate implant design and placement site selection, and consistent follow-up. Additional long-term studies using standardized outcome measures are needed to strengthen clinical guidelines and improve treatment protocols for high-risk patient populations.

Key words: Dental implant, systemic disease, medically compromised patients, implant success, risk factors, systematic review