Are you frustrated about missing teeth? Dental implants are the most popular and effective dental restoration solution. Patients widely consider implants as they look completely natural and function exactly like natural teeth. There are several myths about the credibility of implants for smokers. Knowing about the practical facts will help you reduce anxiety levels. Let us have a detailed look into the relationship between smoking and the success of dental implants. However, nothing can be better than consulting a dentist for specific recommendations. After assessing the conditions, dentists can even suggest other alternatives, like dentures or bridges.
How Smoking Affects Dental Health?
Smoking is not only harmful to oral health but significantly affects overall health. Do you know that smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer? It also leads to gum infections and tooth decay. Smoking also reduces blood pressure levels, delaying the recovery time. Proper healing is essential to ensure the success of dental implants in San Antonio. Chemicals in cigarettes are very harmful to open wounds and can cause infections right to the jawbone.
Impact of Smoking On Implant Success Rates
Smokers are always concerned about whether their habits will affect the success of dental implants. When you check out the past surveys, you will find that smokers are at a higher risk of dental implants failure. Regardless of the risks, you can go for dental implants being a smoker. Make sure that you discuss your habits with your dentist before the surgery. Nothing can be better if you can pause smoking if you cannot leave.
Can Smokers Undergo Dental Implant Surgery?
Smokers can undergo dental implant surgery but with special considerations. Being a smoker, you should be extra cautious to avoid further complications. Dentists always conduct comprehensive exams before conducting implant surgery. If they find oral problems among smokers, they will primarily focus on treating that problem. Issues in the gum and jawbones require primary treatments before dental implant surgery. As a smoker, you should be prepared for a longer recovery time. Smoking leads to slower healing.
Tips For Smokers Who Want Dental Implants
Following a few tips can enhance the success rate of dental implants if you are a regular smoker. Even if you can’t leave smoking permanently, at least pause it during this entire tenure. You should stop smoking well before surgery and till you recover fully. Smoking always increases the chances of gum infections and plaque buildup; focus on maintaining good oral hygiene. Nothing can be better if you use mouth-washing liquids between your brushing. Visit your dentist regularly after getting the implants.
Alternatives to Dental Implants for Smokers
If you’re a smoker and concerned about the risks of dental implants, there are alternative options for tooth replacement. Some patients may opt for dental bridges or dentures, which do not require osseointegration or surgery. These options may be more suitable for individuals who are not ideal candidates for implants due to smoking-related risks. Another option is the All-on-4 dental implant procedure, which uses fewer implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth.
Successful Dental Implants For Smokers
While smoking can negatively impact the success of dental implants, it doesn’t necessarily rule out the possibility of getting them. Smokers considering dental implants should work closely with their dentist to assess their oral health, understand the risks, and take the necessary steps to improve the chances of a successful outcome. Smokers can still enjoy the benefits of dental implants and restore their smiles by following proper aftercare and making necessary lifestyle changes.
