Dental implants are remarkable prosthetic devices that can replace lost teeth with strong and beautifully lifelike restorations that function just like real teeth. The success of a patient’s dental implants largely depends on these appliances thoroughly integrating with the jawbone after being placed, as this allows them to exert maximum chewing pressure and last for several decades if they receive excellent care
Unfortunately, certain habits such as smoking can complicate your recovery after receiving dental implants and even cause them to fail. Here’s a guide to how you may still be able to replace your teeth with implants if you smoke.
How Can Tobacco Hurt Dental Implants?
One of the most significant benefits of dental implants is that they are sturdy enough to exert almost the same chewing power as real teeth. However, chewing or smoking tobacco can compromise your gums and prevent your appliances from integrating with your jaw properly.
When exposed to the nasty chemicals in tobacco, your gums will harden to protect themselves, and having to do this frequently will eventually cause them to recede due to exhaustion. To make matters even worse, nicotine has the unfortunate side effect of causing constriction of blood vessels, which makes it harder for your gums to get enough circulation to properly heal and fight infections. For these reasons, smoking before or after dental implant placement can set your new appliances up for early failure.
Can I Get Dental Implants if I Smoke?
While a tobacco habit will not necessarily preclude you from receiving dental implants, your dentist will probably recommend that you cease smoking, dipping, or chewing for at least several weeks before and several months after your placement procedure. This will help your gums heal without complications while encouraging your jawbone to fuse with your implants. However, it will always be ideal to quit completely, as this can help you avoid a wide range of oral health issues such as cancer, gum disease, and bad breath.
If you’ve been smoking for a while and have developed gum disease or thin jawbones as a result, these conditions may disqualify you from receiving implants. However, your dentist will be happy to help you schedule preliminary treatments such as gum disease therapy and bone grafts that can allow you to qualify for dental implants later.
Dental implants may be the best way to replace your lost teeth even if you smoke. During your consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health to determine the best way to restore your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Sienna Palmer earned her dental degree at the Ostrow School of Dentistry and regularly participates in continuing education coursework. She is proud to be a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Her office in Mission Viejo offers services such as restorative, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To schedule your consultation for dental implants, contact her office online or dial (949) 365-0951.