Can Smoking Cause Dental Implant Failure?

If you’ve lost one or more teeth over the years, dental implants in Southlake are the most reliable solution to rebuild your smile. As the only dental prosthetic to replicate the entire tooth structure, you’ll enjoy a variety of benefits that can last for a lifetime with the right aftercare. While it is rare, dental implants can fail. Unfortunately, a leading cause of implant failure is caused by smoking. If you can’t kick the habit, here’s what you need to know to ensure your new smile lasts.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic used to replace a missing tooth. A titanium implant is surgically placed into the jawbone to replicate the root. An abutment is placed on the post to connect a custom-made restoration. This is the only solution that treats the entire tooth structure. As a result, it offers exceptional benefits, including a 95% success rate to last for decades.

Can Smoking Cause Dental Implant Failure?

You know smoking is bad for your health, but it’s also dangerous for your smile. Not only can it lead to stains, cavities, and gum disease, but it can also increase your risk of dental implant failure. Generally, the risk of implant failure is less than 5%; however, if you smoke the rate of complications increases to 20%.

Smoking is known to cause delayed wound healing, increased tissue damage, and alveolar bone resorption – all of which raise your risk of implant failure. With tobacco known to negatively impact almost all therapeutic procedures in the mouth, it’s best to kick the habit as soon as possible if you plan to replace your missing teeth with dental implants.

Can I Get Dental Implants If I Smoke?

Although smoking increases your risk of dental implant failure, you may still be a candidate for the procedure; however, it’s important to tell your dentist about your tobacco use. Your dentist will recommend you stop smoking for at least 2 weeks before your implant placement surgery and avoid tobacco for at least 2 months afterward to allow your mouth time to heal. You may also need more frequent dental checkups after you’ve completed the implant process to monitor your oral health for any signs of complications, like infection.

Protect Your Smile from Dental Implant Failure

Your dental implants can last for a lifetime with the right care. Besides avoiding tobacco, it’s also best to maintain your oral hygiene habits at home and visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup to ensure your new smile lasts. If you develop any concerning symptoms, like pain or inflammation, don’t wait to see your dentist. The sooner they address the problem, the more likely they can prevent implant failure and save your smile.

About Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew

Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew opened his private practice in 1989 to provide the community with advanced dentistry solutions, including dental implants. He regularly continues his education to remain well-versed in the latest treatments. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, he can help. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.