Smoking significantly reduces the success rate of dental implants by impairing healing, increasing infection risk, and compromising bone quality, making it a critical factor for patients to consider before undergoing implant procedures.
Impaired healing from smoking
Nicotine, a key component in cigarettes, significantly impairs the healing process crucial for dental implant success. It constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the gums and oral tissues. This restriction hampers the body’s ability to heal after implant surgery, delaying wound recovery and potentially compromising osseointegration – the critical process where the jawbone fuses with the implant. The reduced blood flow also limits the delivery of essential nutrients and immune cells to the surgical site, further hindering the healing process. Consequently, smokers often experience prolonged recovery periods, increasing the risk of complications and potentially leading to implant failure.
Infections and peri-implantitis risk
Smokers face an elevated risk of infections and peri-implantitis, which can severely compromise dental implant success. The weakened immune system caused by smoking makes individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections around the implant site. Peri-implantitis, characterised by inflammation and bone loss surrounding the implant, occurs more frequently in smokers and can lead to implant failure if left untreated. This condition is particularly problematic as it can develop even years after successful implant placement, threatening long-term stability. The toxins in cigarette smoke not only impair the body’s natural defence mechanisms but also create an environment conducive to harmful bacteria, further increasing the likelihood of complications. To mitigate these risks, dental professionals often recommend strict oral hygiene practices and regular check-ups for smokers with implants, though quitting smoking remains the most effective preventive measure.
Bone loss in smokers
Smoking accelerates bone loss in the jaw, a critical factor for dental implant stability and longevity. This detrimental effect is due to smoking’s impact on bone metabolism and osteogenesis, leading to a weaker bone structure and increased fragility. A meta-analysis published in the National Library of Medicine revealed that smoking cigarettes increases marginal bone loss around implants by an average of 0.11 mm per year (the findings of the report can be viewed here). This reduction in bone density not only compromises the initial integration of the implant but also affects its long-term success. Additionally, smoking impairs calcium absorption and increases oxidative stress, further contributing to bone fragility and reduced healing capacity.
Smoking cessation recommendations
To maximise dental implant success, patients are strongly advised to quit smoking before and after the procedure. It is recommended to cease tobacco use at least one week before implant surgery and abstain for a minimum of two months post-operation. This critical period allows for initial healing and osseointegration to progress without interference from smoking’s harmful effects. Here at The Implant Experts, we encourage our patients to abstain for as long as possible, as the risk of implant failure remains elevated for smokers. Patients who find it challenging to quit completely are encouraged to significantly reduce their tobacco consumption, as studies indicate that smoking fewer than 10 cigarettes per day corresponds with lower implant failure rates compared to heavier smoking. Ultimately, permanent smoking cessation offers the best long-term outcomes for dental implant success and overall oral health.
Talk to our team about your concerns
Are you considering dental implants but worried you might not be able to quit smoking completely before or after the procedure? Arrange a free initial consultation with our patient care manager to discuss your options by completing our quick and confidential online form.
