Missing teeth not only affects the way individuals bite, chew, or speak. It can also significantly impact one’s self-confidence, particularly in social situations. With dental implants, people with missing teeth have a reliable and effective solution. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. This is why many patients consider them a life-changing investment. For smokers, however, there is a crucial question: Will my dental implants fail if I smoke?
Will My Dental Implants Fail If I Smoke?
An honest dentist will tell you that smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure. Although not all smokers experience implant failure, research shows that smoking can interfere with healing, success rates, and the lifespan of dental implants. Understanding how implants work and what you can do to optimize their use can increase your chances of success.
How Do They Work?
Why is smoking a risk factor? To understand the answer, it is important to understand how dental implants heal. A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone.
Over the course of several months, a process called osseointegration occurs. The bone grows and fuses around the implant. This makes the implant stable to function as an artificial tooth root and support a crown, a bridge, or a denture.
The process of osseointegration relies on adequate blood flow, healthy gums, and robust bones. If there is any disruption in the healing process, the likelihood of complications or failure increases.
Problems Caused by Smoking
Reduced Blood Flow
If you smoke, healing slows down after implant surgery. This is because nicotine causes the blood vessels to constrict. This limits oxygen and nutrient delivery to the gums and bone.
Weakened Immune Response
Because smoking suppresses the immune system, it becomes harder for the body to fight infections. Peri-implantitis, a gum infection surrounding implants, is a leading cause of implant failure.
Dry Mouth
Saliva usually washes away bacteria. But with smoking, saliva production is decreased. When the mouth is dry, it becomes a more favorable environment for plaque buildup. This buildup, if left too long, can affect the process of osseointegration and lead to implant failure.
Bone and Gum Loss
Smoking can accelerate bone density loss and gum recession. This can cause a problem with the stability of the implant.
Delayed Healing
Smokers usually take a longer time to heal after undergoing surgery. This has been shown consistently in studies. A longer healing time means an increased risk of complications during the first few months.
Success Rates: Smokers VS. Non-Smokers
In general, dental implants have a high success rate. For non-smokers, the success rate can be as high as 95%. On the contrary, for smokers, there is a significant drop in success rates. As reported in some studies, there is a 10-20% higher failure rate. This only means smokers can still have a successful outcome even with higher risks.
Is It Necessary to Quit Smoking Before Implants?
Dentists usually recommend a temporary break from smoking before and after implant surgery. The first two to three months are especially crucial because this is when the process of osseointegration takes place. Not smoking during this time increases your chances of success.
Tips for Smokers Considering Dental Implants
- Be honest with your dentist. Openly discuss your smoking habits so they can tailor your treatment plan to you.
- If quitting is not possible, a temporary break still improves healing. You can also explore nicotine replacement therapies with your dentist.
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. It would also be good to use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Follow your dental visit schedule. Regular visits to your dentist will allow them to spot early signs of gum disease and implant problems.
- You may also seek professional support to help you quit more easily.
Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth, and smoking does not automatically disqualify you from a successful outcome. However, you must understand that smoking increases the risks. Although many smokers can still achieve long-lasting results, the chances of infection, poor healing, and implant failure are higher compared to non-smokers.
If you are serious about restoring your smile by getting dental implants, it would be best to stop smoking, even if it is just temporarily. Consult with a dental implants specialist to learn more about dental implants and to understand your chances of success. Schedule a consultation with us today.