How Smoking Affects the Success of Dental Implants?

The Importance of Osseointegration

One of the critical factors for the success of dental implants is osseointegration. Osseointegration refers to the process by which the implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue, providing stability and support for the prosthetic tooth or teeth. This integration is vital for the long-term success of dental implants.

Smoking and Its Effects on Dental Implants

Now, let’s explore why smoking can be detrimental to the success of dental implant procedures.

1. Impaired Blood Circulation

Smoking is known to constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to various parts of the body, including the mouth. This reduced blood circulation can hinder the body’s natural healing process, making it challenging for the implant to osseointegrate properly.

2. Delayed Healing

Smokers often experience delayed wound healing, which can significantly impact the initial stages of dental implant recovery. Delayed healing can lead to complications and increase the risk of implant failure.

3. Increased Risk of Infection

Smoking weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. In the case of dental implants, the risk of post-operative infections is higher among smokers, which can compromise the implant’s success.

4. Reduced Bone Density

Smoking has been linked to reduced bone density, particularly in the jawbone. This decrease in bone density can affect the stability of dental implants, making them more prone to failure.

The Benefits of Quitting Smoking

While the impact of smoking on dental implants is concerning, there is some good news. Quitting smoking before undergoing a dental implant procedure can significantly improve the chances of success. Smoking cessation allows the body to heal more efficiently, reduces the risk of infection, and promotes better bone density.

What Our Patients Say

Julia Stacey

2023-09-01

My experience of Gentle Dental is one of friendliness, professionalism and reassurance. I won’t be going anywhere else.

Gary Stevens

2023-08-23

A well run dental practice. It’s always about the staff. Very good experience.

Eline Meling Henriksen

2023-07-19

I have to admit, I'm usually not the biggest fan of dentist visits, but my recent experience at Gentle Dental changed my perspective. Ruth and her remarkable dental team provided an incredible level of care that exceeded all my expectations. Ruth, in particular, led the way with her expertise, patience and gentle approach. As someone who has always felt anxious in dental environments, Ruth's calming demeanour instantly put me at ease, and she consistently checked in to ensure I was comfortable and adjusted her approach accordingly. Gentle Dental truly lives up to its name, and I cannot recommend them enough. If anyone like me have had negative experiences with dentists in the past, this practice will hopefully be a stepping stone to change your perception. Ruth and her team have mastered the art of providing dental care that is not only exceptional but also empathetic.

Claire Allchin

2023-06-19

I had been going to a different local private dentist and I was becoming more and more upset, frustrated and disappointed with their service, prices and their dismissive attitude towards my medical and dental needs. I was recommended Gentle Dental by a neighbour and I thank the stars that I decided to go with them. I have various medical conditions which have had a major negative impact on my teeth, my teeth were snapping off at the gums or just splintering and breaking off in chuncks. I had asked my previous dentist about removing my teeth and having dentures, however they refused and wanted to just keep doing fillings again and again on the same teeth!! I saw Dr Shahnaz Nowroozi and her amazing assistant Man (Manrupa) every single tiny thing was explained to me in detail they listened to my fears and concerns regarding my constantly breaking teeth, my really sensitive gums and my medical conditions and medications. We discussed what I ideally wanted to happen and I was actually listened to... It was explained what would be feasible and the reasons why some things wouldn't be ideal. My treatment plan was constructed while I was in the appointment and I was included at every step. For the most part it was agreed that it was a fools errand to keep trying to repair the same teeth again and again, we also discussed the full pro's and cons of having dentures etc etc. I was offered a repayment loan for my treatment however I never felt that I was being forced into taking it. My treatment was amazing, seriously, I never knew teeth could be removed without pain!! Literally my extractions were painless even the injections to numb my mouth were relatively painless. Dr Shahnaz and Man treated me like I was their most important client, I was constantly asked if I was OK and comfortable (I am riddled with quite acute arthritis in my neck and back and every effort was made to completely accommodate me) I really cannot praise the above staff enough, my completed dentures are amazing and I am like a new person, I have my confidence back, I can talk to people without having to hover my hand in front of my mouth, people have said that they would never have guessed that I had dentures because they fit so well and look so good. Overall every staff member I met at Tonbridge Gentle Dental was friendly and helpful but Dr Shahnaz and Man her assistant are both absolutely amazing and I don't think I would ever be comfortable seeing another dentist again.

PTC

2023-06-15

Lovely dentist and staff. Will definitely be back.

Trudy Reynolds

2023-04-22

I have been absolutely terrified of dentists since I was 14 years old and had to go to the school dentist. I cannot praise gentle dental enough they are so kind, knowledgeable and brilliant, they restored my faith in dental care, I will never worry again. Outstanding.

Sandra Wakefield

2022-10-29

I have nothing but praise and appreciation for the receptionists, dentist and nurse who dealt with me. I could not be more pleased with my new dentures and a big thank you to Dr Neethu Joy for all the time and detail she went to making sure they fitted well. A ten out of ten from me. Sandra

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