The absence of teeth creates difficulties with eating and speaking and reduces a person’s ability to feel at ease when smiling. Dental implants serve as a lasting answer to tooth loss by restoring both oral functionality and cosmetic appearance. Many smokers remain uncertain about their eligibility for dental implants for smokers because smoking creates various risks for their dental health. This blog examines the relationship between smoking and dental implants while discussing available options for smokers who want successful treatment results.
Understanding Dental Implants
Artificial tooth roots with titanium in case of dental implants are inserted into the jawbone for supporting replacement teeth. The whole process involves a number of steps, including surgery and healing time after which a custom-made crown would be attached. The purpose of dental implants is to behave like natural teeth; hence, they always remain a favored choice for people with missing teeth.
How Smoking Affects Dental Implants
The practice of smoking results in multiple negative effects on oral health by raising gum disease risk and slowing healing processes and decreasing dental implant success rates for smokers. The substances in tobacco products reduce gum blood flow which leads to delayed healing of bone and soft tissue tissues following implant surgery. Smoking damages immune system strength which creates challenges for the body to fight off infections.
Risks of Dental Implants for Smokers
1. Delayed Osseointegration
Osseointegration is the joining of the jawbone and the dental implant. Smoking gets in the way of this by denying the tissues oxygen supply and blood supply, hence resulting in a high chance of implant failure.
2. Increased Risk of Infection
Smokers are at higher risk of contracting infections following dental implant surgery. Since smoking lowers the immune system, it becomes even more difficult for the body to resist bacteria, and the likelihood of contracting peri-implantitis that may result in implant failure is higher.
3. Extended Healing Process
Healing from dental implants in smokers can be slower than in non-smokers. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing the oxygen and nutrient levels to the site of surgery, impairing tissue healing.
4. Gum Recession
Gum recession is an added consequence of smoking, exposing the implant post and undermining its stability. Receding gums also make the implant appear unnatural and shorten its lifespan.
Can Smokers Still Get Dental Implants?
Yes, smokers can still receive dental implants, but they must take extra precautions to improve their chances of success. Dentists usually recommend quitting smoking before and after the procedure to promote healing and increase implant survival rates. If quitting is not possible, smokers should reduce their tobacco use and follow a strict oral hygiene routine.
Tips for Smokers to Improve Dental Implant Success
1. Stop or Cut Down Smoking
The best method of achieving successful dental implants in smokers is to quit smoking altogether. If quitting is not feasible, cutting down the number of cigarettes taken per day will also enhance the likelihood of a successful implant.
2. Maintain Perfect Oral Hygiene
Daily brushing and flossing can decrease plaque formation and infection likelihood. An antibacterial mouthwash can also keep gums healthy.
3. Go See Your Dentist Often
Regular dental visits are required in order to monitor the condition of dental implants. Dentists will be able to detect early signs of complications and provide professional cleanings to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
4. Follow Post-Surgery Instructions
Dental implant post-operative care implies that the patient is required to stick to the recommendations of the dentist. Avoid smoking for several weeks following surgery because this will increase healing as well as the implant’s success rate.
5. Healthy Diet
Healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals will see the immune system in good shape while healing occurs fast. Calcium- and vitamin-C-rich foods promote healing of the bones and gum.
Why Choose Chemong Family Dental for Dental Implants?
If you are considering dental implants in Peterborough, visit Chemong Family Dental for expert guidance and personalized care. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and confident smile, regardless of your smoking history.
