If you have experienced tooth loss, you may be thinking about getting dental implants to rebuild a complete smile. Yes, this treatment can restore your bite, improve your appearance, and optimize your oral function. But are you a good candidate? Your dentist will consider several factors before determining if dental implants are right for you, including whether or not you smoke. How might this habit affect your journey? Continue reading to find out.
How Smoking Affects Dental Implants
Firstly, it is important to note that smoking is very risky for dental implants. It can cause numerous issues, including:
- Restricted blood flow: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, which can prevent the needed oxygen and nutrients from reaching your implant surgery sites.
- Slower bone healing: Smoking can negatively affect the bone remodeling process, which means the implants may not bond properly with your jaw.
- Infections: Because it suppresses immune function and causes dry mouth, smoking can make you more likely to develop dangerous infections such as peri-implantitis.
Because of the above-listed complications, smokers tend to experience a much higher rate of dental implant failure than non-smokers. Therefore, it would be best of you make every effort to kick the habit. Your primary care doctor may offer guidance and help you find a cessation program that works for you.
Getting Dental Implants as Someone Who Smokes
If you do not quit smoking, there is still a chance you could be approved for dental implants. This habit is just one of many factors that affect your candidacy. Other things also come into play, including your overall health, your oral health, the strength and volume of your jawbone and even how much you smoke.
Yes, while no amount of smoking is safe, even cutting back could reduce your risk of dental implant failure. Plus, smoking fewer cigarettes each day can be an important stepping-stone to quitting altogether.
At the very least, you should abstain from smoking during the weeks before and after your implant surgery. This will help create a better environment for your new prosthetic teeth to bond with your body. You might choose to use nicotine patches to manage withdrawal symptoms during this time.
Smoking is bad for dental implants, but it might not stop you from getting them. Talk to your dentist to get a realistic preview of the road ahead.
Meet the Practice
At Beach Dental in Westhampton, our team is proud to offer start-to-finish dental implant services. We welcome everyone with missing teeth to visit us for a consultation. After we learn about your circumstances, we can help you determine the best way to rebuild your smile. To learn more or to request an appointment, contact us at 631-325-0731.