Replacing your missing teeth with dental implants opens the door to a brand-new life – where you’re able to once again eat the foods you love and smile with confidence. Along with being the best form of tooth replacement available, dental implantation has a 95% success rate. If you use tobacco, though, it can have a negative impact. Continue reading to learn why smoking and dental implants don’t mix!
How Tobacco Affects the Mouth
When you smoke, a host of toxins are released inside the mouth. This can make the area drier than normal, which attracts more bacteria. The more bacteria that are present, the greater the chances of the implant being compromised.
Here are two serious issues that smoking can contribute to:
- Gum disease – As bacteria accumulate, they soon settle beneath the gum line to contribute to gum (periodontal) disease, which is the inflammation of the soft tissue. Compromised gum health can cause the implant to fail.
- Gum recession – Unaddressed bacteria accumulation can also lead to gum recession. As the tissue decreases in size, there is less support available for the implant. This can cause it to eventually unseat and fail.
Understanding the Post-Surgery Healing Process
After an implant is placed, it can take up to nine months for the treatment site to heal and for the implant to fuse with the jawbone (called osseointegration). Initially, a blood clot will form to encourage healing. The drier your mouth is, the greater the chances of the blood clot painfully dislodging. The lack of moisture can also inhibit the fusion process and prolong your transition to a normal life.
The Importance of being Open with Your Dentist
Before the dental implantation process gets underway, it’s best to be completely open with your dentist about any tobacco usage. Of course, he or she will reiterate the dangers of continuing usage while recovering from implant surgery.
The dentist may also suggest seeing a professional who specializes in helping people overcome a tobacco addiction. Ultimately, any steps you take to encourage better overall health will play a tremendous role in extending the life of your implant. That means you can soon get back to doing all the things you love and placing your personality on full display.
If you’re ready to have your missing teeth replaced as safely and effectively as possible, reach out to a nearby implant dentist to request a visit. The steps you take today will result in a healthier and happier tomorrow!
About the Author
Dr. Rodger Song earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Throughout the years, he has completed over 500 hours of continuing education, earning him status of Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Song maintains professional membership with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He takes a careful and measured approach to replacing missing teeth with dental implants at Bridlewood Dental, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.