Did you know that smoking tobacco contributes to the deaths of an estimated 480,000 individuals in the United States annually? Cigarettes and vapes contain nicotine, tar, and other harmful substances that are known to contribute to multiple serious health concerns, like lung problems, heart disease, stroke, and different types of cancers.
They can also detract from your dental condition by causing cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer that can lead to tooth loss. Your dentist can restore your smile with dental implants, but you might have to quit smoking first. Continue reading to learn why!
What Are Dental Implants?
These are the only replacement teeth surgically embedded into your jawbone for added strength and stability. They typically include a titanium rod that’s strategically placed in your bone. After your procedure, it can take three to six months to recover because your mouth must produce enough new bone growth to fuse with the metal pole. Then, a fully customized restoration, like a dental crown, is anchored in place to fill the gap in your grin.
Unlike dentures and dental bridges, these prosthetics can function as sturdy stand-alone structures, so there are very few dietary restrictions. Plus, they’re customized for seamless results and can last 15 to 25+ years with the right care.
How Does Smoking Affect Dental Implants?
Cigarettes, vapes, and other tobacco products contain nicotine, which is an addictive chemical that negatively impacts your oral and overall health. It’s a vasoconstrictor, reducing your blood’s oxygen level and flow. It renders your body incapable of delivering essential nutrients to your teeth and gums while simultaneously suppressing your immune system. This increases the risk of developing oral issues, like periodontal problems, tooth decay, and throat and mouth cancers.
Unfortunately, the number one leading cause of dental implant failure is a progressive form of gum disease known as peri-implantitis. Smokers are significantly more likely to develop this and other complications that can interfere with your body’s ability to heal itself following your procedure.
Can I Get Dental Implants if I Smoke?
Although it may be technically possible for smokers to get dental implants, it’s usually recommended that you stop at least a week before scheduling your procedure. Then, experts suggest waiting at least 90 days after your surgery before trying to smoke again, though it’s better to quit permanently if you can. This unhealthy habit has been known to contribute to failure years after successfully recovering from the procedure. Your dentist might also take additional precautions to avoid adverse side effects, such as prescribing antibiotics to help fight infections like gum disease.
Quitting smoking is an excellent first step in preparing for the dental implant procedure!
Meet the Author
Dr. Kevin Dann is passionate about helping families in Toronto build and maintain their happiest, healthiest smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Toronto and achieved his Certificate in Implant Dentistry from the Tufts Medical Centre in Boston. Today, he provides a comprehensive menu of services to conveniently meet all your needs under one roof, including placing and restoring dental implants. He combines a caring approach with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort and deliver accurate results intended to last. To rebuild your smile, you can request an appointment on the website or call (647) 559-3176.
