Can people with diabetes, smokers or older adults get dental implants?
There's no upper age limit for implants: most adults whose general health allows minor surgery and who have enough bone can have them. Uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking and some medications increase the risk and need careful assessment.
What are the basic requirements?
- Jaw growth complete (usually 18 or over)
- Enough bone to hold the implant, or bone that can be built up
- No active infection or untreated gum disease
- General health suitable for minor surgery under local anaesthetic
- Commitment to oral hygiene and check-ups afterwards
Can people with diabetes have implants?
People whose blood sugar is well controlled can have implants, with success rates close to those without diabetes. With uncontrolled diabetes, wound healing slows and the risk of infection rises.
That's why a recent HbA1c result is requested during planning and, where needed, we coordinate with your doctor. On the day of surgery, keep to your usual meals and medication.
Can smokers have implants?
Yes, but smoking significantly increases the risk of the implant failing to fuse and of later inflammation around it (peri-implantitis). The more you smoke, the higher the risk. Stopping for at least a few days before surgery and throughout healing improves the odds. See our aftercare guide for post-surgery advice.
Can people over 65 have implants?
Age alone isn't a barrier; many patients have implants in their seventies and eighties. What matters is general health, medication and bone. For people with no teeth whose dentures move, securing the denture on a few implants can greatly improve quality of life. See implant-supported dentures.
Which conditions and medications need special assessment?
| Condition | What's checked |
|---|---|
| Blood thinners | Never stopped without your doctor's advice; most procedures can go ahead with dose management |
| Osteoporosis medication | The type, duration and route of drugs such as bisphosphonates are reviewed |
| High blood pressure and heart conditions | Usually not a barrier if well controlled; current status is assessed |
| Radiotherapy to the head and neck | Bone healing may be affected, so detailed planning is needed |
| Pregnancy | Elective surgery is usually postponed until after birth |
Bring a list of all your medications to the examination. If needed, we'll consult your doctor.
Can people with little bone have implants?
In most cases, yes. Options include bone grafts, sinus lifts, or short and angled implants. See bone grafts and sinus lifts. To find out whether implants are right for you, book an examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an age limit for implants?
The lower limit is when jaw growth is complete (usually 18). There's no upper limit; general health is what counts.
I have high blood pressure. Can I have an implant?
If it's controlled with medication, usually yes. Take your medication as normal on the day, and your blood pressure will be checked before the procedure.
Do e-cigarettes affect implants too?
Nicotine narrows blood vessels and can impair healing. It's best to avoid nicotine products during healing as well.
Can I have an implant if I have gum disease?
Gum disease is treated first. Uncontrolled gum disease raises the risk of inflammation around implants too.
