The chances of dental implant failure in smokers are way higher than in those who don’t smoke. People who are aware of the negative effects of smoking know how badly it damages our bodies. If you have had dental implant surgery and you smoke, you should know that this habit can lead to the replacement of your dental implant way sooner than it should.
How Smoking Affects Dental Implants
Once your dental implants are fitted in the jawbone, smoking will start impacting your surgery site. This happens because every time you inhale while smoking, the nicotine in the tobacco hinders the flow of blood to your healing gums. Consequently, it makes the immune system of your body weak and makes a recovery lengthy and difficult.
Dental or medical professionals studying this field believe inhaling smoke deteriorates the mouth’s soft tissues and thickens the top layer of skin cells. Smoking also takes a toll on the glands that produce saliva in the mouth. The salivary glands dry out, and very less fluid remains that eliminates the bacteria causing gum disease.
During dental implant surgery, incisions are made into your gums to fit the implant. The process of osseointegration should begin to allow the fusion of dental implants with the jawbone and surrounding tissues. However, the bad news for smokers is that, because of the weakened immune system, the process gets delayed and may even fail. Moreover, there are high chances of the development of infection, and implant failure can occur.
Does Smoking Impact Your Candidacy For Getting Dental Implants?
If you are a smoker, you may not be a potential candidate for dental implants, and this is especially true if you’re a chain smoker. Visit your San Jose dentist to figure out if smoking will prevent you from getting an implant or not. Even though you’re a smoker, it’s possible to have a dental implant, but the dentist will explain that your smoking habit will minimize the years your dental implant will be functional. When meeting your dentist, be open and honest about your smoking if you are willing to get a dental implant. Also, discuss if you’re ready to deal with dental implant failure and how well you can manage this situation.
Improving the Success Rate of Dental Implant
If you need a dental implant for that missing tooth, consider quitting smoking for better oral health. Finish your last cigarette, and say no to anymore. This will increase your chances of living with your dental implants for a long, long time. If you need any help with dental implants in San Jose, CA, visit our conveniently located dental office. Our dentists and staff are ever ready to help you educate and quit smoking for a healthy mouth and a happy life.
Get In Touch!
To find out if dental implants are right for you, please don’t hesitate to contact AT Dental Care today. Call (408) 579-9931 or schedule an appointment online.