Diabetes is the second major factor in periodontal problems (right behind smoking). However, with proper oral hygiene and dental visits it does not have to be a death sentence for his teeth, depending on the amount of damage he has had until now.

Implants have a higher failure rate in diabetics, although they are not always contraindicated if everything is under control.

You can tell yourself which teeth need to be pulled usually. Ones in pain, ones you can move with your fingers, and ones with large holes in them (more than half the tooth gone).

Periodontal surgery is only indicated when you have pockets of greater than 5mm. You can always ask to look at the chart. If there are only 1-2 5's, surgery is not usually necessary. When you have multiple 6-7+ than there is usually no other option if you want to save the teeth.

Even the worst cases of perio, the recall schedule is 3 months at the lowest, not 2. And once your husband comes into those recalls with signs of good home care, the visits can go back to 6 months.

MOST IMPORTANT - when you are looking at spending that much money, find another dentist and get a second opinion if you are not completely convinced. If you have insurance, a lot of it should be covered depending on your carrier.

Things to look for in a good dentist:
1. Explains everything to you and answers all your questions to your satisfaction.
2. Spends time with you (a dentist that comes in for 2 minutes and leaves probably is not very interested in you as a person). Anytime you are about to spend that much money, a dentist should spend a good deal of time explaining and discussing options with you.
3. Gives you multiple options! In dentistry, there are always options. Some dentists tend to only focus on the ideal option (which unfortunantly is usually the most expensive). If money may be an issue, ask for a less expensive option.
4. One who just makes you feel comfortable. You are going to have to see this person several times a year, it should be a good, healing experience....not one you dread.

Any more questions, feel free to ask here, or pm me if its too personal.