Dental Implants for Diabetics:
Controlled Diabetes, Excellent Outcomes
Diabetes doesn't disqualify you from dental implants. With good blood sugar control, success rates are comparable to non-diabetic patients. Here's what you need to know.
92-97%
success rate (controlled diabetes)
<8%
HbA1c threshold for treatment
From £28
per month with finance
Diabetes and implants: separating myth from reality
If you have diabetes and you've been told that dental implants aren't for you, that advice is outdated. Research published over the last decade consistently shows that diabetic patients with good blood sugar control achieve excellent implant outcomes.
The critical factor isn't whether you have diabetes. It's how well your blood sugar is managed. An HbA1c below 8% puts you in the safe zone for treatment. Below 7% is ideal.
We treat diabetic patients regularly and have specific protocols to ensure your safety and the success of your implants.
Diabetic Patient Self-Assessment
Check these factors to see if you're likely a candidate
0 of 5 criteria met
If you ticked most of these, you're very likely a candidate. A consultation with blood work review will confirm.
Book Your ConsultationConcerns Specific to Diabetic Patients
"I've heard diabetes means slower healing"
Elevated blood sugar can impair the body's healing mechanisms, including the process of bone fusing with the implant (osseointegration).
Good blood sugar control largely eliminates this concern. Patients with HbA1c below 7% heal at rates comparable to non-diabetic patients. We may allow slightly longer healing periods (an extra 2-4 weeks) as a precaution and prescribe antibiotics to reduce infection risk.
"My blood sugar fluctuates. Is that a problem?"
Day-to-day fluctuations are normal in diabetes management. The concern is whether short-term spikes could affect implant integration.
What matters is your average control (HbA1c), not individual readings. Occasional spikes don't significantly impact implant outcomes. We time surgery for stable periods and can coordinate with your diabetes team to optimise control around your procedure.
"I'm worried about infection risk"
Diabetes can affect the immune response, and patients are right to be aware of higher infection risk with any surgical procedure.
We mitigate this with prophylactic antibiotics and enhanced monitoring. Antibiotic cover before and after surgery reduces infection risk significantly. More frequent follow-up appointments in the first year catch any issues early. Our infection rates for diabetic patients remain very low.
"Will I need to change my diabetes medication before surgery?"
Some patients worry that surgery will disrupt their carefully managed medication routine.
Most medications continue as normal. We review your full medication list and coordinate with your GP if any adjustments are needed. Metformin and most oral medications don't need changing. Insulin users may need minor timing adjustments on surgery day.
Diabetic patients with HbA1c below 7% have implant success rates of 95-97%
A meta-analysis in Clinical Oral Implants Research reviewed over 3,000 implants placed in diabetic patients. The conclusion: well-controlled diabetes is not a contraindication for implant therapy. Success rates approach those of non-diabetic populations.
Source: Clinical Oral Implants Research
Our Diabetic Patient Protocol
How we tailor treatment for patients with diabetes
Medical review and blood work check
We review your most recent HbA1c, medication list, and overall health. If your HbA1c is above 8%, we may recommend working with your GP to improve control first. A 3D scan assesses your bone levels.
GP coordination (if needed)
We write to your GP to confirm treatment safety and coordinate any medication adjustments needed around surgery. That way, everyone involved in your care is on the same page.
Pre-surgical preparation
We provide specific instructions for managing your diabetes around surgery, including any medication timing adjustments and fasting guidance if needed for sedation.
Implant placement with antibiotic cover
Prophylactic antibiotics before and after surgery reduce infection risk. The procedure itself is identical to non-diabetic patients. Blood sugar monitoring is available on-site if needed.
Enhanced monitoring during healing
Check-ups at 1, 3, and 6 months. We monitor healing progress, check for any infection signs, and confirm successful osseointegration before placing your permanent teeth.
UK's Top Rated Dentists
Dr Sunil Mangla
BDS (Liverpool), PG Cert Sed and Pain Management (Lon)
Dr. Yasser El-Ali
DDS (GBG Sweden) 2001, GDC Nr: 79231
Dr. Nasim Mechoui
BDS (Bristol), MSc Implant Dentistry (Rome)
Dr. James Bodonyi
M.B.M.S (Adel), M.A.
Dr Sunil Mangla
BDS (Liverpool), PG Cert Sed and Pain Management (Lon)
Dr. Yasser El-Ali
DDS (GBG Sweden) 2001, GDC Nr: 79231
Dr. Nasim Mechoui
BDS (Bristol), MSc Implant Dentistry (Rome)
Dr. James Bodonyi
M.B.M.S (Adel), M.A.
Dr Sunil Mangla
BDS (Liverpool), PG Cert Sed and Pain Management (Lon)
Dr. Yasser El-Ali
DDS (GBG Sweden) 2001, GDC Nr: 79231
Dr. Nasim Mechoui
BDS (Bristol), MSc Implant Dentistry (Rome)
Dr. James Bodonyi
M.B.M.S (Adel), M.A.
Check If You're a Candidate
Quick assessment for diabetic patients
Diabetes and Implants: Your Questions Answered
Can diabetics get dental implants?
Yes. Patients with well-controlled diabetes (HbA1c below 8%) have implant success rates very close to non-diabetic patients. The key factor is blood sugar control, not the diagnosis itself. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics can be treated successfully.
What HbA1c level is needed for dental implants?
An HbA1c below 8% (64 mmol/mol) is the general threshold for safe implant treatment. Below 7% is ideal. If your levels are above 8%, we may recommend working with your GP to improve control before proceeding. We'll review your most recent blood work at your consultation.
Does diabetes affect implant healing?
Elevated blood sugar can slow healing and increase infection risk. However, well-controlled diabetics heal comparably to non-diabetic patients. We may allow slightly longer healing periods and prescribe prophylactic antibiotics as a precaution. Diabetes also increases gum disease risk, which we monitor closely.
Do I need special aftercare as a diabetic patient?
We recommend slightly more frequent check-ups in the first year (every 3-4 months instead of 6). Good blood sugar control during healing is important. We coordinate with your GP and provide clear guidance on oral hygiene protocols specific to diabetic patients.
Will my diabetes medication affect the implant procedure?
Most diabetes medications are compatible with implant surgery. Metformin, insulin, and most oral hypoglycaemics can continue as normal. We review your complete medication list and coordinate with your GP if any adjustments are needed around surgery.
How much do implants cost for diabetic patients?
The cost is the same as for any patient. Single implants from £1,695, full arch from £6,995. There are no additional charges related to diabetes. 0% finance from £28/month. See our payment options.
What Our Patients Say
Real stories from real patients who transformed their smiles with Dental By Design
What a great first experience of this team , very happy and will be going ahead with accessing their services.
07/04/2026
A TRULY life changing experience. When a tooth cracked just before Christmas, it was the final straw for me. I decided to look into full arch dental work, and after some detailed research, I chose Dental By Design. From the very first appointment, to post surgery check-ups, the service has been nothing but first class. Dr Yasser is a genius, a dental Michelangelo. Along with his assistant Adriana, he made me comfortable, he answered every question patiently, and built out a plan for a double arch surgery. On the day of the operation, I was in no pain, I was looked after at every step of the journey by Dr Yasser and Adriana, and he took incredibly care and detail to ensure that my arches were fitted perfectly. He make a long and complex operation feel simple and pain free, and the end result was worth every penny. Post operation, I felt no pain, recovery has been simple, and I am now sitting here with a beautiful smile, and with the confidence to smile again. It really DOES change the way you eat, talk, and smile again. Supporting Dr Yasser and Adriana are a wonderful, friendly, and super helpful front desk team, who could not do enough to help me ( and even made sure I got home safe after the operation! ). I cannot thank Dr Yasser and the team at Dental by Design enough. If you are thinking of having this done, do it, you won't regret it!!
06/29/2026
This place and the people there have genuinely changed my life! Got multiple implants here after years and years of not having been to a dentist due to severe anxiety and PTSD. As a result my oral health had really suffered, I had to have some teeth removed last year and had lost all confidence. From my first appointment with Dr. Yasser he made me feel safe and supported. There was never an ounce of judgement and just kindness, understanding and great communication. He definitely knows what he is doing, discusses personalised treatment options with you and just makes you feel like you're in the best hands. Can't could always sense whether I needed distraction in which case he was great at making me laugh or just some kind, calm words. Ms Adriana, the lovely nurse who was always there during our appointment was also always such a calm and kind presence in the room. She let me hold her hand when I needed it and also did such a great job! As well as the kind reception who always welcomed me with a smile and made me feel as calm as possible. Thank you to the entire team for making me feel safe and for giving me a new, great smile that I can show off confidently!
06/29/2026
First class experience, don’t bother going anywhere else, i contacted other countries companies before I found Dr Yasser and Mr Ledio, no comparison, first class from minute 1. Found it brilliant that you get time with the Dr Yasser at the very start, I asked him lots of questions and got lots of reassurance from the start, can’t praise them high enough, had my procedure, went great. Very happy customer, big thumbs up 👍
06/27/2026
I have been attending Dental by Design… I have been attending Dental by Design for I think 4 years and I have noting bye praise for all the Dentist that work there but one in particular Rob Jung. I had a fault with my bridge I was very worried as I thought I would lose the perfect smile that dental by design but Rob assured me he would get my Smile 😃 but and today was that day when Rob gave me the Mirror it was the best my teeth have ever looked even better than the last bridge, I got out of the chair and gave him the biggest hug I could and thank Rob so much for giving me my Smile back. THANK YOU DENTAL BY DESIGN. If you are thinking about getting your teeth done I would say this is the best place ever. They take care of you from start to finish. I just so glad I found them and went to get my teeth done there. 5 stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 all the way.
06/25/2026
I had an excellent experience at this dental clinic today. From the moment I arrived, I felt genuinely welcome. Unfortunately, I was running late and had to call ahead, but the team were so understanding and reassuring. When I arrived, I was offered water and coffee, which immediately made me feel comfortable and valued as a patient. The entire team was incredibly professional, friendly, and attentive. I came in for a consultation regarding a single dental implant, and the dentist was outstanding. He explained everything in great detail, taking the time to go through all the options, the procedure itself, and what to expect throughout the process. I never felt rushed and was encouraged to ask questions. What really stood out was how approachable and personable he was. Not only was he highly knowledgeable and professional, but he also had a great sense of humour, which helped put me completely at ease. We even had a good laugh, making what could have been a stressful appointment feel relaxed and enjoyable. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my experience. The level of care, professionalism, and friendliness was exceptional. I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for dental treatment, especially if you’re considering an implant. Thank you to the whole team for making me feel so welcome.
06/24/2026
I cannot recommend Dr. Yasser and his dental nurse, Adriana, highly enough. I recently underwent a full mouth dental restoration with implant-supported bridges, a procedure that lasted approximately six hours from start to finish. Despite the length of the treatment, which had a break at the halfway point, the entire experience was completely painless and far more comfortable than I ever imagined. From the very beginning, Dr. Yasser demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism, and attention to detail. He took the time to explain every stage of the procedure, which gave me complete confidence and peace of mind throughout the day. Adriana was equally outstanding, providing constant support, reassurance, and care that made the whole experience feel relaxed and stress-free. The results have been nothing short of life-changing. Seeing my new teeth and smile for the first time was an incredibly emotional moment. The transformation has given me a level of confidence I haven’t felt in years, and I genuinely wish I had gone ahead with the treatment much sooner. If you are considering a full mouth restoration using implant-supported bridges, I can honestly say that placing my trust in Dr. Yasser and Adriana was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Their expertise, kindness, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcome have completely transformed my smile and my quality of life. Thank you both for such an incredible experience and an amazing result. Also a big thank you to Dr. Yasser for picking the incredible Pink Floyd soundtrack to listen to as the procedure unfolded. I’m no longer just another brick in the wall.
06/21/2026
The whole experience was even better than I expected. As someone who has always been afraid of visiting the dentist, Dr. Rob Jung immediately made me feel at ease. The professional care and attention I received from him and his entire team were truly exceptional. The smile that Dr. Rob gave me has genuinely changed my life, and I cannot thank him enough for his skill, kindness, and dedication. I am so grateful for the outstanding treatment and support I received throughout the process. I would highly recommend Dr. Rob Jung and his team to anyone looking for excellent dental care. Varsha Mehta
06/16/2026
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Diabetes Shouldn't Stop You Smiling
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