Dental implants have a long record of success, but like any surgical procedure, they can come with risks.
Most concerns are preventable, manageable and treatable – but they need to be identified early. This guide explains the most common complications, what to look for and how to reduce your risk.
Booking a consultation with our team gives us the opportunity to get to know you, understand your goals and discuss which treatment option may align with your needs.
Are complications common from dental implants?
Most people experience smooth healing, but mild swelling, bruising or discomfort is very normal. More serious complications, such as infection or peri-implantitis, are less common but can occur.
Various factors can influence the risk of complications, including:
- Overall health
- Gum condition
- Bone density
- Oral hygiene habits
- Smoking habits
- Type of implant treatment
- Clinical planning and technique
If you’d like personalised guidance, a consultation can help you understand your individual risk factors before starting treatment.
How long do dental implants last?
Full-mouth implants are just one of the options to replace missing or deteriorating teeth. It aims to integrate with the jawbone, creating a stable foundation not just for a single tooth but also for long-term oral function.
Many implants last over 10–20 years with good care, and some can even last significantly longer.
Longevity can be dependent on factors like:
- Bone quality
- Oral hygiene
- Gum health
- Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking)
- Regular check-ups
What types of dental implant complications are there?
Surgical Complications (During the Procedure)
These are uncommon, especially with digital planning. However, some possible risks include:
- Nerve Irritation – Occasionally occurs if an implant site is close to a major nerve. Symptoms may include numbness or tingling.
- Bleeding – More likely in people taking blood thinners or those with bleeding disorders.
- Damage to Nearby Teeth – Can occur if spacing is limited or roots sit close together.
- Jawbone Fracture – While rare, this is usually associated with patients who have very thin or weakened bone.
2. Early Healing Complications (Days–Weeks After Surgery)
After the implant procedure, several potential complications could arise, ranging from minor side effects to more serious health concerns. However, most healing symptoms are temporary and manageable during this stage.
| Category | What It Is | Common Signs | Why It Happens / Risk Factors | Notes |
| Normal, Temporary Healing Effects | Expected short-term symptoms after implant surgery. |
| Normal inflammatory response to surgery. | Usually settles within days. Pain medication and proper aftercare help manage these symptoms. |
| Infection at the Implant Site | Bacteria entering the surgical area, causing inflammation. |
|
| Early treatment is important to reduce the risk of further complications. |
| Allergic Sensitivity to Materials | Rare reaction to implant materials such as titanium. |
| Body reacts to the material as if it were foreign. | In rare cases, a different implant material may be required. |
| Sinus-Related Issues (Upper Jaw Implants) | When an implant extends too close to or into the sinus cavity. |
| Upper jawbone can be thinner and closer to the sinus floor. | More severe cases may require a sinus lift or additional bone support. |
3. Long-Term Implant Complications
The encouraging part is that most long-term complications can be avoided with diligent home care and regular appointments where we can monitor your progress together.
However, some long-term complications to consider include:
- Gum recession exposing part of the implant
- Peri-implantitis – inflammation and bone loss around the implant
- Mechanical wear, such as screw loosening or chipping of the prosthetic
- Implant movement, indicating incomplete fusion with the bone
How do we minimise dental implant complications?
At FoX Implant Centre, every stage of your implant care is coordinated in one place – your assessment, planning and clinical treatment are managed by the same team.
Here’s how we support safe and predictable implant treatment:
- Comprehensive assessment using 3D imaging to evaluate bone quality and plan suitable implant positions.
- Medical history review to identify factors that may influence healing or treatment planning.
- Individualised treatment plans tailored to your oral health and specific needs.
- Advanced digital planning technology to support accurate implant placement.
- A team experienced in implant dentistry, providing care informed by extensive clinical training.
Over 4,000+ patients seen annually…
Individual results vary. Outcomes depend on a range of factors, including bone quality, healing response and oral hygiene. Not all patients are suitable for this treatment. To learn more about treatment risks and complications, please visit here.
[add before and after gallery]
Have more questions?
We welcome you to attend a no-pressure, no-obligation consultation. This visit is designed to help you understand whether dental implants may be suitable for your individual needs.
Our friendly, trained team can discuss the potential risks, considerations, benefits and available options so you can make an informed and confident decision about your care.
FAQs:
Are dental implants safe?
Dental implants are generally considered a safe and well-established treatment for replacing missing teeth. Complications are uncommon, especially when implants are carefully planned and placed by an experienced team. Your suitability depends on factors such as your oral health, bone density and medical history, which can be assessed during a consultation.
What is the most common complication of dental implants?
The most common complication is inflammation around the implant, often caused by plaque buildup. This may include early infection at the gum level or, more rarely, peri-implantitis, which affects the surrounding bone. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups play a key role in reducing this risk.
How do I know if my dental implant is failing?
Dental implant failure is typically linked to poor integration with the bone or infection around the implant. Common signs may include:
- Ongoing pain or swelling
- Gum recession exposing part of the implant
- Difficulty chewing
A loose or unstable implant
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dental practitioner promptly for assessment and support.
Can smokers get dental implants?
Smoking does not automatically rule out dental implants, but it does increase the risk of complications, particularly delayed healing and infection. Your clinician can discuss how smoking may affect your treatment and what steps may help support a better outcome.
How painful are dental implant complications?
Symptoms vary depending on the issue. Some complications may cause mild discomfort or pressure, while others, such as infection, can lead to more noticeable pain or swelling. If you experience persistent or worsening discomfort, it’s important to have the area checked as early as possible.
What should I do if my implant feels loose?
A loose implant should be assessed promptly. Movement may indicate that the implant has not fully integrated with the bone or that the surrounding tissues need attention. Avoid chewing on the area and contact your dental practitioner for an appointment.
When should I seek medical attention?
Addressing concerns as early as possible can help prevent further complications. You should seek professional care if you experience:
- Persistent or increasing pain
- Excessive or prolonged bleeding
- Swelling that worsens instead of improving
- Fever or signs of infection
- A loose implant