Quick answer: Dental implants are a well-established treatment with high success rates when planned carefully and maintained well. There are risks (as with any surgery), but these are uncommon and are reduced by thorough assessment, experienced clinicians, high-quality materials, and good aftercare.
If you’re considering dental implants, it’s reasonable to ask: “Are they safe?” The short answer is that implants are widely used and successful when carried out by an experienced team with proper planning and maintenance.
At The Campbell Clinic in Nottingham, we’ve supported many patients through smooth recoveries and long-term follow-up. If you’re curious about the recovery experience specifically, see What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery.
What makes dental implants safe?
- Detailed planning: Assessment of bone, gums, bite and medical history, often with 3D imaging.
- Experienced team: Specialist-led care and evidence-based protocols.
- Proven systems: Use of research-backed implant components.
- Structured aftercare: Hygiene support and review appointments to protect the result.
Good to know: Long-term outcomes depend on both clinical quality and your home care. Great brushing, interdental cleaning, and regular hygiene visits really matter.
What are the risks?
All surgery carries risks, though serious complications are uncommon when treatment is properly planned and maintained. Potential risks include:
- Infection around the implant site.
- Implant not integrating with the bone (may require removal/replacement).
- Nerve injury (rare) — careful planning helps minimise this risk.
- Sinus-related issues for upper back teeth cases (managed with appropriate techniques).
- Peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant) — risk reduced with excellent oral hygiene and maintenance.
If you’ve had gum disease before, suitability needs careful assessment and stabilisation. For a deeper look, read Can I Get Dental Implants if I’ve Had Gum Disease?
Who might not be suitable?
Your clinician will assess your medical and dental history. Implants may not be suitable right now if you have:
- Uncontrolled gum disease or untreated dental infection.
- Insufficient bone without options to rebuild it.
- Certain medical considerations where surgery isn’t advisable.
- Heavy smoking or habits that impair healing.
Where implants aren’t ideal, we’ll discuss other options (e.g. dentures or bridges) and a plan to get you healthy enough to proceed later if appropriate.
How we reduce risk at The Campbell Clinic
- Thorough assessment: Medical history, clinical exam and appropriate imaging.
- Personalised planning: We design your treatment around your goals and health.
- Specialist-led surgery: Evidence-based protocols and proven implant systems.
- Maintenance plan: Hygiene support and regular reviews to protect your implants.
Important: Your consent discussion should cover benefits, risks, alternatives, likely timeframes and costs for your specific case.
How safe are implants long-term?
With good planning and ongoing care, many implants last for years. Longevity varies by individual and maintenance — your clinician will discuss realistic expectations for your case. For an overview on outcomes, see How Successful Are Dental Implants?
If you’re weighing up whether implants are the right option for you, our main guide is a helpful place to start: Dental Implants in Nottingham.
FAQs: Safety & risks
Are dental implants safe?
Implants are a well-established treatment with high success rates when planned carefully and maintained well. Your individual suitability will be assessed at consultation.
What’s the biggest risk?
Problems are uncommon but can include infection or inflammation around the implant. Great hygiene, not smoking, and regular reviews reduce these risks.
Does it hurt?
You’ll be numbed for surgery. Most patients describe mild, short-lived soreness afterwards that’s manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. For details, see What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery.
What if I’ve had gum disease?
Implants may still be possible once your gums are stabilised and there’s enough bone (or if it can be rebuilt).
Learn more in our gum disease & implants guide.
Next steps
Safety starts with a careful assessment and a clear plan tailored to you.
If you’re ready to explore your options, we’re here to help.
