Consequences Of Smoking After Your Dental Implant Procedure

Cigarette smoking has negative consequences on every single body system, including your respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, and circulatory system. It can also impact your oral health and lead to complications after your dental implant procedure. While cigarette smoking does not necessarily disqualify you as a suitable candidate for getting dental implants, you should know about the following ways in which it can negatively affect your recovery following your implant procedure.

Slower Healing And Increased Risk of Infection

Cigarette smoking can have negative effects on the healing process during your recovery from dental implant surgery. Nicotine and other noxious chemicals that are found in cigarette smoke can hinder optimal blood flow and decrease your oxygen supply to the implant surgical areas inside your mouth. This may impair your body's ability to effectively heal after your procedure. 

Cigarette smoking can also weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to postoperative infections of the soft tissues inside your mouth, as well as infections of your jawbone. If you have not quit smoking at the time of your implant procedure, talk to your dentist about ways of maintaining a healthy immune system. Immune-boosting interventions may include eating foods high in vitamin C, getting plenty of exercise, getting enough quality sleep, and limiting your intake of alcohol.

Increased Risk Of Implant Failure

Smoking can also heighten your risk for implant failure. The chemicals found in cigarette smoke can interfere with a process called osseointegration, which refers to the process of when the dental implants fuse with your jawbone. If the osseointegration process is impeded because of smoking or otherwise, your dental implants may loosen or you may develop bone loss in your jaw which can lead to implant failure. While your dentist will attempt to treat any osseointegration problems, they may need to remove your implants if you develop a severe bacterial infection or implant failure.

If you smoke cigarettes, try quitting or cutting down prior to getting your dental implants. This will help ensure a successful recovery and may help increase the lifespan of your implants. It is important to note that if you are struggling to quit smoking, work with both your physician and dentist to come up with a smoking cessation treatment plan. Not only will quitting smoking help ensure a more positive outcome after getting your dental implants, but it may also help improve your overall general health and enhance your well-being. 

For more information about dental implants, contact a local company. 

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