Quick answer
The main downsides of dental implants are cost, a surgical procedure, a healing period of several months, and a small risk of complications such as infection or implant failure. They also need careful daily cleaning and regular checkups. For many people the tradeoffs are worthwhile, but a dentist can tell you whether implants suit you.
Key takeaways
- The biggest downsides of implants are the up-front cost, the surgery and the months of healing.
- Implants can have complications, such as infection or an implant that does not fully bond with the bone.
- Overall health, gum health and habits like smoking affect whether implants are a good fit.
- Insurance coverage for implants varies, and there are payment options for people with or without insurance.
- A dentist can look at your mouth and tell you whether implants, a bridge or dentures make the most sense for you.
What is the downside of dental implants?
The most common downsides are the up-front cost, the need for minor oral surgery, a healing period that can last several months, and a small chance of complications. Implants also need the same daily care as natural teeth. None of these make implants a poor choice, but you should know about them before you decide.
The FDA describes dental implants this way: "Dental implants are medical devices surgically implanted into the jaw to restore a person's ability to chew or their appearance." Because they are surgical devices, they come with the same kinds of tradeoffs as other procedures: time, cost, recovery and risk. The American Dental Association also notes that "Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth and are designed to blend in with your other teeth." Both things can be true. Implants are a well-established option, and they are not right for everyone.
If you are new to the topic, our overview of what dental implants are explains the parts and how they work. The sections below focus on the drawbacks.
Why can dental implants cost more up front?
Implants often cost more at the start than other ways to replace a tooth, because the treatment involves several steps and parts. The total depends on your mouth and your plan, so a dentist needs to examine you before anyone can talk about a number.
An implant usually includes the implant post placed in the jawbone, a connector, and a custom crown. Some people also need extra procedures first, such as a tooth extraction, treatment for gum disease or a bone graft to build up the area. Each added step can add to the total and to the timeline.
Bridges and dentures can be less expensive at the outset, and for some people they are a sensible choice. The tradeoff is that they work differently in the mouth and may need adjusting or replacing over time. An implant is a bigger decision at the start, and many people weigh that against how they want to eat, speak and smile in the years ahead.
How long does the implant process take, and what does surgery involve?
The process is not quick. Placement can sometimes happen the same day as an evaluation, but the implant then needs about three to six months of healing before the permanent crown goes on.
During healing, the jawbone grows around the implant post and holds it in place. This is what makes an implant steady, but it also means you wait. Many people wear a temporary solution or go without a tooth for part of that time.
Placement is a surgical procedure, so expect some soreness, swelling and a short stretch of softer foods afterward. Most people manage this with the aftercare instructions they are given. If surgery makes you nervous, tell the team. Oral conscious sedation is available, and we are happy to talk through your worries without judgment.
What risks and complications can happen with dental implants?
Implants are generally reliable, but complications can happen. The most discussed ones are infection around the implant, an implant that does not bond well with the bone, and problems with the gum tissue.
- Infection: Bacteria can build up around the implant and irritate the gums and bone. It is easier to treat when caught early, and left alone it can lead to bone loss.
- Implant failure: Sometimes the bone does not hold the implant as expected, and it may need to be removed or replaced.
- Nerve or sinus issues: In the upper or lower jaw, placement near nerves or sinuses needs careful planning. Imaging helps a dentist avoid these areas.
- Crown or part problems: A crown can chip, or a small screw can loosen, and either may need a repair visit.
Implants cannot get cavities, but the gums and bone around them can still get inflamed. That is why daily brushing, cleaning between the teeth and regular checkups matter just as much as they do for natural teeth.
Who may not be a good candidate for dental implants?
People with certain health conditions, active gum disease, or not enough jawbone may need other treatment first, or a different option altogether. The FDA says, "Your overall health is an important factor in determining whether you are a good candidate for dental implants."
Conditions that affect healing, such as poorly controlled diabetes, can raise the chance of problems. Some medications and treatments that affect bone can also matter. Tell your dentist your full health history.
Smoking is another factor. The American Dental Association explains that smoking harms your mouth and gums, and healthy gums are important for an implant to heal well. If you smoke, a dentist can talk through how that may affect your plan, without judgment. If implants are not a fit right now, alternatives such as full or partial dentures or a bridge can still restore your smile and your ability to chew.
Does insurance or Medicare cover dental implants, and can you get them free?
Coverage for implants varies a lot. Some dental plans cover part of the cost, some cover only related steps such as extractions, and some exclude implants. Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental care, and Medicare Advantage plans differ, so check your own plan. A typical practice cannot offer free implants, but there are ways to make the cost more manageable.
Our practice accepts most major dental PPO plans, and our team can help you understand what your plan may cover and can process claims for you. To find out how to get implants covered by insurance, ask your plan whether implants are a covered benefit, find out about waiting periods and yearly limits, and ask for a written treatment plan so you can compare.
If you do not have insurance, or your plan does not cover implants, there are other options:
- CareCredit, where you can get pre-approved
- In-house payment plans
- The Ultra Discounts plan for people without insurance
You can read more on our financial options page. Be cautious about offers for "free implants" online. Ask what is included, what is not, and who will take care of you if something needs follow-up.
How tight should a crown be on a dental implant?
A crown on an implant should feel snug and stable, but not tight or painful. It should not move when you bite, and you should be able to clean around it.
A well-fitted crown sits evenly with the teeth around it, allows floss to pass between the teeth, and does not press on the gums. If it feels loose, rocks, or you notice a bad taste or sore gums near it, see a dentist. A loose crown can mean a loose screw, and it is easier to fix early. If a crown suddenly breaks or you have severe pain, same-day emergency care is available, and walk-ins are welcome.
How can you decide if dental implants are right for you?
Start by comparing what matters to you: how long you can wait, your budget, your health and how you want the result to feel. A dentist can help you weigh these.
Questions that can help at your visit:
- Is my jawbone and gum health ready for an implant, or would I need other treatment first?
- What is the full plan, including every step and the timeline?
- What would a bridge or dentures look like for my situation?
- What will my insurance cover, and what payment options fit my budget?
- How will I care for the implant, and how often should I be seen?
You can learn more about our approach on our dental implants page. We see patients at our Peoria, North Phoenix and Metro offices, and our Mesa office opens on December 1, 2026. This article is general education, not a diagnosis. A dentist can look at your mouth and advise you based on your own situation, whether or not you end up choosing implants.
Part of our Dental implants articles.
Sources
- Dental Implants: What You Should Know, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- Implants, American Dental Association (MouthHealthy)
- Smoking, American Dental Association (MouthHealthy)
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