Dental implants have changed the field in dentistry by providing long-lasting and natural looking solution for patients with missing teeth. However, certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking, vaping, and marijuana use can detrimentally effect dental implants. In this article, we will explore the effects of these habits on the initial and long term success of dental implants and the importance of maintaining good health practices.
1. Smoking and Dental Implants:
Smoking has been recognized as a major risk factor for health problems such as cancer and emphysema Studies have also shown that smoking can significantly interfere with the healing process of dental implants and compromise the overall success rate. There are harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke such as nicotine and tar when will starve the oxygen supply to bone and soft tissue surrounding the implant site. This lack of adequate oxygen to the cells in this area can impede proper healing as well as delay the fusion of the implant to the surrounding bone and increase the risk of early implant failure.
In the long term smoking also weakens the overall immune system which makes the body less capable of fighting infections. Peri-implantitis, which is a chronic infection of the bone and surrounding tissues which leads to bone loss and eventual failure of the dental implant.
2. Vaping and Dental Implants
Vaping which is the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has gained popularity recently. Vaping is marketed as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking although there is little data to support this claim. Data is lacking regarding the relationship between vaping and potential harm to dental implants however the presence of various chemicals such as nicotine and aerosols may be considered as potential contributors to implant failure.
E-cigarette aerosols which contain nicotine, flavoring, and other additives have been associated with gum inflammation and can potentially delay the healing process after implant placement. They also can cause mouth dryness which alters the balance or normal oral bacteria thereby increasing the possibility of peri-implantitis and its associated complications.
3. Marijuana Use and Dental Implants
Marijuana is another substance that can be detrimental to dental implants primarily related to the method consumption. Smoking marijuana involves the inhalation of hot smoke in a similar way as cigarette smoking. Oral tissue are exposed the the products of combustion which can decrease healing and increase the the risk of implant failure.
Marijuana use is also associated with dry mouth (xerostomia). This reduction of saliva can negatively effect the normal bacterial biome and lead to an increase risk of gum disease associated with natural teeth as well as peri-implantitis. Studies have shown that marijuana can also decrease bone density which could detrimentally effect the fusion of bone to dental implants.
Maintaining good oral health is necessary to the success and long term prognosis of dental implants. Smoking, Vaping, and Marijuana use can all detrimentally effect dental implants by interfering with the healing process as well as increasing the risk of infection which could lead to loss of implant stability. When considering implant treatment, it is important to consider the potential consequences of these habits and consider reducing or eliminating continued usage.
Ignoring the consequences of these bad habits can be detrimental to your overall health and its important to discuss these issues with our office so we can support your effort to change so we will have the best opportunity to give you the beautiful smile you deserve!