Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Dental implants have become one of the most popular tooth replacement options to replace a single missing tooth or replace an entire arch of missing teeth and can be used to anchor implant dentures to restore smiles. Due to their high success rates, dental implants are the ideal tooth replacement and can last for the rest of your life if you maintain them properly. Healthy adults with good jawbone support are generally good candidates for dental implants. But if you smoke, you could be sabotaging your chances of getting dental implants. Today on the blog, our Okemos implant dentist Dr. Christine Tenaglia shares reasons to quit smoking if you plan on getting dental implants.
How does smoking affect my chances of getting dental implants?
Smoking has long since been proven to be a detriment to your health. With increased risks of lung diseases and cancer, smoking also slows blood flow, restricts blood vessels, and impedes healing, a necessary component to successful surgical outcomes. Since getting dental implants involves oral surgery, it’s essential to have good health and blood flow. During the implant placement, the titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone. Depending on the type of dental implants you receive, a six-month healing period may be required before placing the implant crown. During this healing period, the implant post has a chance to fuse to the jawbone during a process known as osseointegration.
Is vaping is a safer option than smoking cigarettes?
Nope! It’s what’s in cigarettes that is the problem. The main ingredient in cigarettes and vaping juice is nicotine, which is what hinders blood flow and slows healing. Plus, vaping could lead to burns in the mouth, thickens skin cells, and could damage the salivary glands. Whether you smoke or vape, you should quit if you plan on getting dental implants. Dr. Tenaglia is a trusted implant dentist in Okemos, and she advises patients to quit smoking and using tobacco at least two to three months prior to receiving dental implants. Additionally, it is essential to remain smoke-free during the six-month healing period as well.
How can dental implants improve my smile?
Missing even a single tooth can make speaking and eating a challenge and could affect your appearance if the area missing tooth is visible when your talk or smile. Significant tooth loss makes doing these things even more difficult. Dental implants can restore your smile, allowing you to eat whatever foods you like, and speak and smile with confidence. Implant dentures may also be an option for long-time denture wearers searching for a more secure option for their false teeth.
Dental Implants in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing
If you’d like to learn more about dental implants or want to find out if you’re a candidate, please call Tenaglia Smiles at (517) 347-6733 and schedule a consultation. Dr. Tenaglia will assess your oral health and discuss your smile goals and recommend the best tooth replacement option for you.