If you are a smoker in Mount Pleasant, WA, who is missing several teeth, you might think that dentures are your only option for tooth replacement. The truth is that not everyone who smokes is a good candidate for dental implants, and for some, dentures might be the better option. The only way to know for sure is to come in for a dental implants consultation at our dental clinic.
Principal dentist Dr James Lt Wong will conduct a thorough examination and take x-rays at your initial appointment to determine your current gum health and whether you have enough strong jawbone to support dental implants. Any kind of smoking, including vaping, increases the likelihood of having complications with dental implants that can lead to failure. He can also discuss dentures as an alternative to dental implants.
The Problem With Smoking
It’s hard to believe that there was a time when smoking was hailed as a medicinal habit that was good for your health. We know better now, however, and we know that smoking contributes to a number of health problems, including:
- Asthma
- Blindness and cataracts
- Cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
Smokers are also at a higher risk of developing gum disease, which can further complicate the dental implant process. People who smoke are also at a higher risk of developing infection after dental implant surgery and may heal more slowly than those who do not smoke.
Although smoking can negatively impact the success of your implants—even after you quit the habit—this does not mean you cannot successfully have dental implants. There are options that can increase the likelihood of success, including bone grafts and allowing for longer healing times.
Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about tooth replacement options, and whether dentures or dental implants might be right with you, we invite you to schedule a booking with Dr Wong at our Booragoon, WA dental clinic.