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While dental implants are one of the best solutions available for patients with missing teeth, not everyone will qualify for them. For patients in Pleasanton, CA we encourage you to consult with Dr. Chao to determine your candidacy for dental implants, as there are a number of factors that we look for. However, one trait that could hinder your progress is smoking.
What Are Dental Implants?
First, let’s take a look at what makes dental implants so successful. These titanium implants are embedded into the jawbone and undergo a process known as osseointegration. This process fuses the implant to the bone and is what secures the implant in your smile.
The entire surgical process is split into three basic steps, for the three pieces of the dental implant. It also requires up to six months of healing, depending the number of dental implants receiving, and the patient must maintain good oral health to ensure that the health bone and blood accept the implant. However, if you do smoke it could cause bad side effects that could dampen the success of your dental implant.
What Happens if I Smoke?
Some patients experience a condition known as peri-implantitis, which causes inflammation around the pocket where the dental implant was placed. However, this condition is more prevalent in patients who smoke.
Smoking and nicotine could hinder your healing period, as nicotine could affect the blood flow, bone and tissue conditions. Smokers could also be more susceptible to bone loss and periodontal disease, both of which are factors in determining candidacy and the success of dental implants. Also, as it is an open wound, the smoke could harm those tissues even further.
Am I Eligible for Implants if I Smoke?
While many dentists may not consider candidates who are heavy smokers for dental implants, this does not completely eliminate your candidacy. However, this procedure would require for patients to quit smoking during the entirety of the dental implant procedure to ensure maximum success. It is also advisable that patients quit smoking at least one week or more prior to treatment.
To find out if you’re a candidate for dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chao at Pleasanton Prosthodontics. There are a number of factors that determine your candidacy for dental implants, with smoking and its effects being only a part of that.
Discover Your Candidacy Today
We believe that each patient should walk away with a perfect, bright smile, but it entails cooperation on both sides of the dental chair. If you’re a smoker and are interested in dental implants, please consult with Dr. Chao to determine your candidacy for dental implants. Dr. Chao will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options, cost and financing, and ultimately help decide what’s best for you and your smile.
