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Smoking and Dental Implants - What You Need to Know

Posted on 1/1/2026 by Martin Periodontics

As a Periodontist, I often see patients who are considering dental implants to replace missing teeth. While implants are a great option for many people, it's important to be aware of the potential impact of smoking on the success of implant treatment.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, providing a natural-looking and functional restoration.

Why Consider Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional dentures or bridges, including:

•	Improved appearance: Implants look and feel like natural teeth, boosting your confidence and smile.
•	Enhanced comfort: Implants are secure and stable, eliminating the need for messy adhesives or the discomfort of loose dentures.
•	Improved oral health: Implants help preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss, which can occur with missing teeth.
•	Improved speech and eating: Implants allow you to speak and eat more comfortably and confidently.

The Impact of Smoking on Dental Implants

Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure. Studies show that smokers are twice as likely to experience implant failure compared to non-smokers. This is because smoking:

•	Impairs blood flow: Smoking constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the gums and jawbone. This can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
•	Weakens the immune system: Smoking weakens the body's ability to fight off infection, making it more susceptible to complications after implant surgery.
•	Increases inflammation: Smoking causes chronic inflammation, which can damage the tissues surrounding the implant and lead to implant failure.

What Can Smokers Do?

If you smoke and are considering dental implants, it's important to talk to your Periodontist about the risks involved. They can discuss alternative treatment options or recommend ways to increase your chances of success.

Here are some things smokers can do to improve their chances of successful implant treatment:

•	Quit smoking: This is the single most important thing you can do to improve your oral health and increase your chances of successful implant treatment. Quitting smoking can be challenging, but your Periodontist can provide resources and support to help you quit.
•	Follow your Periodontist's instructions carefully: This includes maintaining good oral hygiene, attending all follow-up appointments, and avoiding smoking during the healing process.
•	Consider bone grafting: If you have significant bone loss, your Periodontist may recommend bone grafting before implant surgery. This can help improve the success rate of your implant treatment.

Conclusion

While smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure, it's important to remember that many smokers have successful implant treatment. By working closely with your Periodontist and following their instructions, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy the benefits of dental implants.

I encourage you to schedule a consultation with your Periodontist to discuss your individual needs and goals. They can help you determine if dental implants are right for you and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

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Martin Periodontics, 6410 Thornberry Court, Suite C, Mason, OH 45040-7909 : (513) 445-4282 : martinperio.com : 1/6/2026 : Related Terms: dental implants Mason OH North Cincinnati OH :