Can Smoking Cause Dental Implants Failure ?

Improvements in technology and treatment approaches have transformed dental implants into a resilient and cost-effective solution for dental rehabilitation. With a success rate averaging between 95% and 98% over a decade when placed correctly and maintained well, dental implants stand as a reliable option. Nonetheless, there exists a narrow margin for implant failure, with smoking emerging as a significant risk factor. Research suggests that smokers experience failure rates between 6.5% and 20% when it comes to dental implants.

How Smoking Influences Oral Health

Smoking introduces nearly 4,000 distinct gases and chemicals into the body, which readily penetrate the bloodstream via the mouth’s lining. These toxins, including carbon monoxide, hinder oxygen circulation to oral tissues, leading to cellular damage. Smoking is associated with an increased likelihood of developing periodontal disease, oral cancer, and peri-implantitis, which is an infection surrounding the implants.

Moreover, smoking impedes wound healing. During dental implant insertion, incisions in the gums are made, sometimes accompanied by tooth extraction. Adequate blood and oxygen supply are imperative for gum tissue healing, yet nicotine can constrict blood vessels, disrupting this vital process. Topeka Oral Surgery recommends regular oral pathology sessions to make sure nothing is serious.

Impact of Smoking on Dental Implants

Research underscores the potential complications smoking poses to the long-term success of dental implants. While osseointegration—the fusion of implant and bone—may still occur, it might proceed at a slower pace. However, upon exposure for abutment attachment and permanent tooth installation, smoking heightens susceptibility to periodontal disease and bone loss. Bacterial growth and bone erosion around the implant induced by smoking heighten the risk of implant failure.

Smoking increases the likelihood of peri-implantitis, a condition marked by bacterial infection causing gum recession, implant pocket deepening, and bone loss.Consequently, untreated peri-implantitis can lead to implant loosening and failure.

Moreover, smoking diminishes saliva production, leading to dryness in the mouth. Saliva not only maintains oral tissue moisture but also aids in rinsing away bacteria, plaque, and food debris, which are detrimental to dental health.

If bone grafts accompany dental implants, smoking can hinder bone healing, particularly in implants placed in the upper jaw near the sinuses due to diminished bone volume.

Mitigating Implant Failure Risk

While being a smoker doesn’t preclude you from receiving dental implants, several measures can enhance outcomes and diminish implant failure risk:

Transparency

Inform your doctor about your smoking habits and any other health conditions for tailored care.

Smoking cessation

Ideally, quit smoking; alternatively, cease smoking at least one week before implant surgery and refrain for two to three months afterward.

Maintain Oral hygiene

Consistently brush and floss, being gentle around the implant area. After receiving replacement teeth, commit to daily brushing and schedule regular cleanings and checkups to catch any issues early on.

Having a history of smoking, or currently smoking, does not automatically disqualify you from being a candidate for dental implants at Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. Our team will carefully assess your overall health, dental history, and smoking habits to tailor a personalized treatment plan that optimizes the success of your implant placement and recovery process.

Request an Appointment for Your FREE Implant Consultation at Topeka Oral Surgery

Schedule your consultation with Topeka Oral Surgery today! Our experienced team is here to provide you with a FREE implant consultation, tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait any longer – book your appointment now and let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Request an Appointment

Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed