Dental Implants for Smokers:
Honest Risks, Real Options
Smoking affects implant success rates. We won't pretend it doesn't. But most smokers still achieve good outcomes with the right approach. Here's the straight talk.
88-93%
success rate for smokers
95-99%
success rate for non-smokers
From £28
per month with finance
No judgement. Just the facts.
If you smoke and you're looking into dental implants, you've probably read conflicting advice. Some sources say smoking makes implants impossible. Others gloss over the risks entirely. Neither is helpful.
The truth is straightforward: smoking increases the risk of implant failure, but most smokers still get successful results. The key is understanding the risks, following a modified protocol, and being realistic about what you can commit to around surgery.
We treat smokers regularly and will never refuse you treatment or lecture you about your choices. What we will do is give you an honest assessment and the best possible plan for your situation.
Smokers have a 7-12% higher risk of implant failure than non-smokers
That means 88-93% of implants in smokers still succeed. The risk is real but manageable. Temporary cessation around surgery, careful placement, and regular monitoring significantly close the gap.
Source: Journal of Dental Research
What Smokers Actually Want to Know
"Will you refuse to treat me because I smoke?"
Some clinics do decline smokers. Others don't mention the risks at all. Neither approach serves you well.
We treat smokers. We'll explain the risks honestly and modify our protocol to give you the best chance of success. We ask for a smoking cessation window around surgery (2 weeks before, 8 weeks after), but we won't turn you away.
"I can't quit smoking. Is there any point?"
Quitting isn't easy, and some patients feel that if they can't quit permanently, there's no benefit to trying.
Even temporary cessation helps significantly. Stopping for the 10-week window around surgery dramatically improves healing. Reducing consumption at any time improves outcomes. And many patients find that getting new teeth becomes motivation to quit for good.
"How do I know if the implant is failing?"
Smokers are understandably more anxious about complications. Signs of trouble can be subtle, and early intervention is critical.
We monitor smoking patients more closely. You'll have check-ups at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after placement. Signs to watch for include persistent pain, swelling, or looseness. If caught early, most complications can be resolved without losing the implant.
"What about bone healing? I've heard smoking slows it down"
Nicotine restricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the surgical site. Less blood flow means slower delivery of nutrients needed for bone healing.
This is the main clinical concern, and it's why we modify the protocol. Wider implants increase initial stability. Longer healing periods allow for slower integration. And the cessation window around surgery coincides with the most critical healing phase.
How Smoking Status Affects Outcomes
| Quit Completely | Reduce + Cessation Window | Continue Smoking |
|---|---|---|
Implant success rate | ||
| 95-99% | 90-95% | 85-90% |
Healing time | ||
| Standard (3-6 months) | Slightly longer | Longer, more monitoring needed |
Risk of peri-implantitis | ||
| Low | Moderate | Higher |
Long-term prognosis | ||
| Excellent | Good | Fair, requires careful maintenance |
Our recommendation | ||
| Best outcome possible | Strongly recommended minimum | We'll still treat you, with honest risk counselling |
| Quit Completely | Reduce + Cessation Window | Continue Smoking | |
|---|---|---|---|
Implant success rate | 95-99% | 90-95% | 85-90% |
Healing time | Standard (3-6 months) | Slightly longer | Longer, more monitoring needed |
Risk of peri-implantitis | Low | Moderate | Higher |
Long-term prognosis | Excellent | Good | Fair, requires careful maintenance |
Our recommendation | Best outcome possible | Strongly recommended minimum | We'll still treat you, with honest risk counselling |
Modified Protocol for Smokers
How we adjust the process to maximise your chances
Consultation and honest risk assessment
We assess your oral health, bone density, and smoking history. You'll get a clear picture of your personal risk level and what we can do to reduce it. No judgement, just facts.
Pre-surgery cessation window
We ask you to stop smoking at least 2 weeks before implant placement. This allows blood flow to normalise and gum tissue to improve. We can provide information about nicotine replacement therapies to help.
Implant placement with modified approach
We may use wider or longer implants for additional stability. Placement technique accounts for potentially lower bone density. Sedation is available if the cessation period is making you anxious.
Post-surgery cessation window
The most critical healing phase. Continuing to avoid smoking during this period is the single biggest factor in your implant's success. We provide support and check-ins throughout.
Enhanced monitoring
More frequent check-ups than standard patients: at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Early detection of any issues means early intervention, which dramatically improves outcomes.
Total estimated treatment time: Same timeline as standard treatment, with added cessation windows and monitoring
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Smoking and Implants: Your Questions Answered
Can smokers get dental implants?
Yes. Smoking increases the risk of implant complications but does not prevent treatment. Success rates for smokers are lower (88-93%) compared to non-smokers (95-99%), but the majority of smoking patients still achieve good outcomes with appropriate protocols.
Do I have to quit smoking before getting implants?
Quitting is strongly recommended but not strictly required. At minimum, we ask patients to stop smoking for 2 weeks before and 8 weeks after surgery. This cessation window significantly improves healing and implant integration. We can help connect you with smoking cessation resources.
How does smoking affect dental implants?
Smoking restricts blood flow to the gums and bone, which slows healing after surgery. It also increases the risk of peri-implantitis (infection around implants) and can reduce the bone's ability to fuse with the implant. The more you smoke, the higher the risk.
What if I can't quit smoking completely?
Reducing consumption helps. Patients who cut down to under 10 cigarettes per day have better outcomes than heavy smokers. We're honest about the risks but will work with you regardless. The temporary cessation around surgery is the most critical period.
Are there special implant protocols for smokers?
Yes. We may use wider or longer implants for additional stability, plan for slightly longer healing periods, and schedule more frequent monitoring appointments. Some smokers benefit from sedation to manage anxiety during the cessation window.
What about vaping and dental implants?
Vaping is less harmful than smoking for implant outcomes, but nicotine in any form still restricts blood flow and can affect healing. If you've switched to vaping, your implant prognosis is generally better than for cigarette smokers, but nicotine-free periods around surgery are still beneficial.
What Our Patients Say
Real stories from real patients who transformed their smiles with Dental By Design
I have nothing but admiration for Dr. Yasser—he is truly an implant artisan. After years of neglect and struggling to eat comfortably, I realised I needed a full-mouth restoration involving dental implants. Following extensive research, I chose Dental by Design and arranged a consultation with him. From the moment I met Dr. Yasser, he put me completely at ease, taking the time to explain every stage of the process clearly and thoroughly. He was totally non-judgmental and made me feel more like an old friend than a patient. A key part of achieving the best possible outcome is following the advice and instructions given while wearing the temporary implants and throughout the journey to the final fitting. The end result has been truly astonishing and has exceeded all my expectations. I cannot thank Dr. Yasser and his nurse, Mr. Ledio, enough. Both were absolutely amazing throughout the entire process, providing exceptional care, professionalism, and support from start to finish. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering dental implants or a full-mouth restoration.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much, Yogesh. We are truly grateful for your kind words and for trusting Dental by Design with such an important treatment journey.
Dr Yasser and Ledio will be delighted to read your review. We are so pleased to hear that you felt supported, informed and cared for throughout the process, and that your final result exceeded your expectations.
We really appreciate you sharing it for other patients considering full-mouth dental implant treatment and thank you again for your recommendation and for choosing Dental by Design!
06/07/2026
I have been coming to Dental by Design for 2 years. This clinic is very different, they do care about the patients. I was terrified of dentists before, but I had fillings, a root canal and even an implant here. I have been coming now just for regular check up and hygiene appointments - Dr Yasser and Dr Luis are the best.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Martin. We’re really pleased to hear that you have felt so well cared for during your time with us.
It means a lot to know that you felt supported enough to go from feeling terrified of the dentist to having fillings, root canal treatment, an implant and now regular check ups and hygiene appointments.
Dr Yasser, Luis and the whole Dental by Design team will be delighted to read your kind words. Thank you for your trust over the past two years. We look forward to seeing you again!
06/06/2026
Very professional, would recommend to anyone wanting or needing implants. I had my upper and lower full arch done. I was looked after very well and taken good care of. The price was also very reasonable.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your kind review, Ivan. We’re really pleased to hear that you felt well looked after throughout your full arch implant treatment. Dr Yasser and the whole Dental by Design team is delighted that you had a positive experience and found the care, professionalism and pricing to be at the standard you expected. Thank you for your recommendation and for trusting us with your smile.
06/04/2026
I had an excellent experience at Dental by Design. The entire team was welcoming, professional, and made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked through the door. The staff took the time to explain everything clearly and ensured that all my questions were answered. The level of care and attention to detail was outstanding. The dentists were gentle, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my comfort throughout the appointment. The clinic was clean, modern, and well-organized, which made the experience even more pleasant. I am very happy with the treatment I received and the results. It’s clear that patient care is a top priority at Dental by Design. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for high-quality dental care and a friendly, professional team. My dentist was Dr. Rob and i was extremely impressed with the level of care and professionalism I received. From the moment I arrived, they made me feel welcome and at ease. Dr. Rob took the time to thoroughly explain my treatment options and ensured that I understood every step of the process. His calm, gentle manner helped ease any anxiety I had about the appointment. What stood out most was his attention to detail and genuine concern for my comfort and well-being. He was patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about providing the highest standard of dental care. The treatment was carried out with great skill, and I was very pleased with the results. I truly appreciate the excellent service and care I received from Dr. Rob . It is clear that he values his patients and strives to create a positive experience for everyone he treats. I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Rob to family, friends, and anyone looking for a trustworthy, professional, and caring dentist.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Zee. We’re delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team and that you felt welcomed, comfortable and well cared for throughout your visit.
Dr Rob and the whole Dental by Design team will be very pleased to read your kind words. We always aim to provide clear communication, gentle care and a high standard of treatment, so it means a lot to know this came across during your appointment.
Thank you again for your recommendation. We really appreciate your trust and look forward to seeing you again!
06/04/2026
Facilities and staff was second to none.great feel and stature about the place.my doctor made me feel at ease no judgement.the care and after care is class.those people have helped change my life
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you, Carl. We are glad you found our facilities and team second to none, and that your doctor made you feel at ease with no judgement. We appreciate your review.
06/04/2026
Just had my surgery done yesterday Everything went well has expected Dr. Yasser El-Ali know has Artisan was simply amazing. It was a dream come true the job you done. I also want to thank his nurse Adriana for all her patience and excellent care. I have no words to describe how happy I feel. I also want to thanks Livi for all the help explaining everything to make me have the surgery done with Dental by Design. A massive thank you for all the team at the clinic
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that everything went well with your surgery and that you felt supported throughout your journey with us. Dr Yasser El-Ali, Adriana, Livi and the whole Dental by Design team will be so happy to read your kind words. It means a lot to know that we could help make this dream come true for you. We wish you a smooth recovery and look forward to seeing your final results!
06/04/2026
I had a brilliant experience with Dr Yasser, having 16 teeth removed and all on 6 top and bottom, just had my final sets of implants fitted and I couldn’t be happier, it’s been an excellent very professional experience and I would most definitely recommend him to anyone thinking of implants.very patient especially if you’re a nervous person like me, he really did put me at ease. Dr yasser is a true Implant Artisan!
Response from Dental By Design
Hi Colleen, thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that you had such a brilliant experience with Dr Yasser and that you are so happy with your final implants. Having treatment like this can feel like a big step, especially when you are nervous, so it is lovely to know that Dr Yasser helped you feel comfortable and at ease throughout. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we are so pleased to have been part of your journey
05/29/2026
I must apologise for not attending today’s appointment please keep the £25 deposit as I will not be continuing your offer.
Response from Dental By Design
Hi Steven, thank you for your message and for letting us know. We are sorry you were unable to attend your appointment and that you will not be continuing at this time.
We appreciate you considering Dental by Design, and we wish you all the best. If you ever have any questions in the future, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic.
05/28/2026
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