Risks and side effects
Implants are very safe, but like any surgery they carry some risks.
Common and short-lived
- Swelling, bruising and discomfort for a few days.
- Minor bleeding.
Less common
- Infection – usually treated with antibiotics.
- Early failure – the implant does not fuse with bone (about 1–3% of cases). It can usually be replaced.
- Nerve irritation – numbness or tingling in the lip or chin with lower-jaw implants. Usually temporary; careful 3D planning reduces the risk.
- Sinus problems – with upper back implants.
Long-term
- Peri-implantitis (gum disease around implants).
- Loose screws or chipped crowns.
What raises the risk
Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, gum disease, teeth grinding, and some medicines. Tell your dentist about all of these.