Smoking and Dental Implants: A Risky Combination
At Renaissance Dental Care in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Dr. Jay Stockdale offers dental implants as a reliable, permanent solution for missing teeth. However, patients who smoke are at a higher risk of implant failure at every stage of the treatment process. Understanding how smoking interferes with dental implants can help you make the right choices for a successful outcome.
If you have questions about dental implants or are ready to take the next step, contact our Rancho Cucamonga office at (909) 297-1921.
Higher Risk of Complications During Surgery
Smoking can increase complications during the initial implant placement surgery. Smokers are more likely to experience postoperative infections due to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the implant site. This can lead to slower healing and a longer recovery period. Additionally, smokers face an increased risk of gum disease and tissue damage, both of which can lead to implant failure.
Slowed Healing and Osseointegration
Osseointegration, the process by which the dental implant fuses with the jawbone, is critical for implant success. For smokers, this process can take up to six months, compared to two to four months for non-smokers. Nicotine restricts blood flow, limiting the body’s ability to heal and increasing the chances of improper fusion between the implant and bone.
Delayed Tissue Recovery and Infection Risk
Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and vaping products can compromise immune function, making it harder for your body to fight infections around the implant site. This delayed healing can increase the likelihood of peri-implantitis, an infection that damages surrounding tissues and leads to implant failure.
Quit Smoking for Better Implant Success
Dental implant specialists, including Dr. Stockdale, recommend quitting smoking at least two to three months before surgery to give your body the best chance of healing. Smokers who quit are less likely to experience complications and enjoy improved implant success rates.
If you’re struggling to quit, our Rancho Cucamonga team can recommend you check out resources such as nicotine patches, counseling, and smoking cessation programs.
Long-Term Effects of Smoking on Dental Implants
Even after the implant has healed, smokers face higher long-term risks. Smoking increases the likelihood of peri-implantitis, an inflammatory infection that affects the gums and bone surrounding the implant. Over time, this condition can lead to progressive bone loss, compromising the implant stability.
Additionally, long-term smokers often experience bone remodeling issues, which further destabilize the implant. For these reasons, lifelong smokers are at an elevated risk of losing their dental implants prematurely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is occasional or social smoking okay before implant surgery?
No, smoking at all with dental implants isn’t ideal. Even occasional smoking can negatively impact the success of dental implants. Patients should refrain from smoking entirely before and after surgery.
How long should I quit smoking before getting dental implants?
For the best chance of implant success, quit smoking at least two months before surgery. The longer you abstain, the better your healing and implant outcome.
Can I smoke right after my implant surgery?
It’s best to avoid smoking for at least two to three months post-surgery to ensure proper healing and osseointegration. Consult your implant dentist or oral surgeon before resuming any tobacco use.
Are e-cigarettes and vaping safer for dental implants?
No, vaping is not ideal for dental implants. E-cigarettes and vaping still expose the body to harmful chemicals, including nicotine, which can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
Take Control of Your Implant Success
If you’re considering dental implants in Rancho Cucamonga, take control of your treatment by quitting smoking today. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stockdale, call Renaissance Dental Care at (909) 297-1921. We proudly serve patients in Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, San Bernardino, and beyond.