Are you missing one or more permanent teeth? Do you use tobacco products like cigarettes, vapes, cigars, or chew? As you may have already discovered, finding a replacement option for your smile can be complicated if you do. That’s because these products (yes, even vapes) can contribute to gum disease and tooth loss, making it likely that your restorations like dental implants won’t work. Here’s a closer look at the risks involved, and why now is the perfect time to quit tobacco for good!
Tobacco and Tooth Loss
Numerous studies over the years have found that tobacco products of any kind increase your risk of gum disease because it not only weakens your immune system, but it also reduces the blood flow to your gums. Then, when harmful oral bacteria attempt to infiltrate your soft tissue, your body is often powerless to fight it, causing gum disease.
But it doesn’t stop there, either. In fact, if left untreated, gum disease can cause receding gums and even loosen the ligaments that keep your teeth anchored to your jaw. Eventually, if not treated, this can cause permanent tooth loss.
Tobacco and Dental Implant Failure
Not only does using tobacco products cause gum disease, but despite them having a 95 percent success rate under ideal circumstances, it can also cause your dental implants to fail. This is because your dental implants must be anchored to the jawbone to work. Thus, when your mouth dries out due to tobacco use, or becomes infected with harmful bacteria, they may not be able to successfully integrate with your jaw and tissue. Worse yet, these products have even been linked to slowed bone healing because of negative effects on blood flow so newer implants may never have a chance from the start!
Can I Still Get Dental Implants if I Use Tobacco Products?
Although tobacco use is not an automatic disqualifier for dental implants, your dentist will determine if you’re suitable on a case-by-case basis. However, if you are investing the time and money into restoring your smile, quitting simply makes sense. In fact, your surgeon will instruct you to quit temporarily for at least two weeks prior to your dental implant surgery, but ideally you should stop at least six weeks in advance. Furthermore, following your procedure, you should remain tobacco free for a minimum of three months, but it is in the best interest of your oral and overall health (including the success of your dental implants) that you quit permanently.
Remember, while using tobacco products isn’t an instant disqualifier for dental implants, quitting will vastly improve your odds for success. Therefore, do your best to stop at least six weeks prior to your procedure, and to abstain from use permanently thereafter to give your newly restored smile a fighting chance. To learn more about dental implants, including whether you qualify for treatment, schedule a consultation with your dentist today.
About Our Practice
At Texas Dental Surgery, Dr. Walker and Dr. Houari want to set your smile up for a lifetime of success. That’s why if you’re missing one or more permanent teeth and are considering dental implants to replace them, they recommend saying goodbye to tobacco products for good. To learn more about dental implants and to see if you’re a good candidate for treatment, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 469-296-8680.