Tooth loss can detract from your daily quality of life as tasks you might have considered simple, such as eating, speaking, or smiling confidently, suddenly become much more challenging.
Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles because of their unique placement in the jaw. Unlike bridges and dentures, they fuse with the bone to become a more permanent part of your mouth. But if you smoke regularly, you might wonder if you can successfully undergo the procedure. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect and why you may want to consider quitting!
How do Dental Implants Work?
These replacement teeth include a post that’s usually made from biocompatible titanium or resilient ceramic and is surgically embedded directly into your jaw. It can take several months to recover because your mouth must generate enough new bone growth to fuse with this support rod in a process called osseointegration.
Once you’ve recovered sufficiently, your dentist can make impressions to craft a customized restoration, such as a dental crown, bridge, or set of dentures, based on the number of teeth that went missing. This one-of-a-kind prosthetic attaches to your implant(s) to close the gaps in your grin, and can help improve your smile’s function and appearance for 15+ years when cared for correctly.
How Does Smoking Affect My Oral Health?
You must consult your provider before proceeding with dental implants so they can examine your dental condition to determine whether you’re a good candidate. For example, if your jawbone is too thin, you might require an additional bone graft to bulk it up enough to continue.
However, if you regularly smoke vapes or cigarettes or chew tobacco, don’t be surprised if you’re not automatically approved for this procedure. These products contain nicotine, which reduces blood oxygen levels and flow while suppressing your immune system. That means your body can’t deliver essential nutrients or infection-fighting cells to your mouth during recovery after implant surgery, which can significantly increase the risk of failure.
Can I Get Dental Implants if I Smoke?
Technically, it’s possible for regular smokers to undergo the dental implant procedure, but most experts recommend that you quit using tobacco products anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks before your oral surgery to help jumpstart healthier blood flow.
But if you’re eager to take a drag as soon as the posts are placed in your jaw, you might be surprised to learn that it’s often suggested to wait 2 to 3 months afterward before resuming your habit. This gives your mouth time to recover effectively to avoid potential complications, such as infection or failed osseointegration, that can destabilize or dislodge your restoration.
If you smoke frequently and are unsure whether you can successfully get dental implants, you can find the answer you seek by consulting your dentist directly!
About the Practice
Patients at Jacksonville Dental Specialists benefit from a team of experts who are passionate about helping people build the healthiest versions of their smiles. Our board-certified team includes two periodontists and a prosthodontist who collaborate to offer a variety of complex, cosmetic, and surgical dental procedures, including dental implant placement and restoration, to enhance your dental health and appearance. If you need to replace missing teeth, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (904) 683- 4781.