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Understanding The Risks: Smoking’s Influence On Dental Implants And Oral Health By Dr. Andrew Kelly

Smoking has well-known negative health effects however, the impact it has to oral health particularly for dental implants is frequently overlooked. If you’re thinking of or have dental implants, knowing how smoking can affect them is crucial for maintaining an ideal smile.

Smoking And Dental Implant Success

Implants in the dental field require a healthy environment to heal and integrate with the jawbone. Smoking greatly reduces the chance of implant success. Nicotine can enlarge blood vessels, which reduces supply of blood to the gums as well as bone. The lack of a sufficient blood flow can hamper the healing process, making it difficult for implants to fully bind with the bone. This could lead to failure of the implant or complications such as infections.

Increased Risk Of Gum Disease

Smoking does not just affect the healing process, but can also increase the chance of developing gum disease, which is a major cause of implant failure. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection which causes damage to the soft tissue and bone that supports your teeth. Dr. Andrew Kelly, a specialist in dental implants warns that those who smoke are at a higher risk to develop gum disease which can compromise the stability of dental implants, and ultimately lead to the loss of their implants.

Long-Term Effects On Oral Health

After the initial healing phase, smoking continues to pose risks to dental health. It can lead to the discoloration of your teeth and implants and persistent bad breath and a higher risk of oral cancer. Smoking also reduces the effectiveness of hygiene routines and makes it more difficult to keep a clean and healthy mouth.

Conclusion: Prioritize Your Oral Health

Quitting smoking is one of the most beneficial choices you can make for your overall health, including the longevity of the dental implants you have. If you’re a smoker who is considering dental implants, talk to your dentist about the potential risks and ways to protect the investment you make in your smile. For more info please click on this particular link Dr. Andrew Kelly winston-salem NC .