Smoking and Dental Implants: What You Need to Know (From a Dentist Who Gets It)

As a dentist who specializes in dental implants, I meet many patients who are excited to replace missing teeth and get their smile and chewing power back. One question I hear often is:

“Doctor, I’m a smoker. Can I still get dental implants?”

The short answer is: yes, but with caution—and it’s important you know the full picture.

Let’s talk about how smoking affects dental implants and what you can do if you’re a smoker needing treatment.

How Smoking Affects Dental Implants

When we place a dental implant, we’re putting a small titanium post into your jawbone. Over the next few months, the bone needs to grow around it in a process called osseointegration—this is what makes the implant stable, like a natural tooth root.

But here’s the catch: smoking makes this healing process harder.

1. Poor Blood Flow

Nicotine causes blood vessels to shrink. Less blood means less oxygen and nutrients reach your gums and bone. That’s like trying to grow a plant with barely any water—healing slows down, and the implant may not bond properly.

2. Higher Risk of Infection

Tobacco reduces your immune response. So if bacteria get near the implant site (which is common in the mouth), your body may struggle to fight it off. This increases the risk of peri-implantitis, a serious infection that can cause implant failure.

3. Lower Long-Term Success

Studies show that implant failure rates are higher in smokers. According to a review in the Journal of the International Academy of Periodontology, smokers had a failure rate of up to 15%, compared to less than 2% in non-smokers.

One of my patients smoked about a pack a day but was committed to improving his oral health. We had an honest talk. He decided to stop smoking for 2 months before and after surgery. His implant healed beautifully. A year later, he told me quitting smoking for the implant actually helped him quit for good.

So, What If You’re a Smoker?

Here’s my honest advice: don’t let smoking stop you from getting help—but be willing to work with your dentist.

Here’s What You Can Do:

1. Try to quit, even temporarily.Stopping smoking for at least 1 week before and 2 months after implant surgery improves your chances significantly.

   
   

2. Consider nicotine alternatives.Patches, lozenges, or even medication (under medical guidance) can help you manage cravings without damaging healing.

   
   

3. Tell your dentist the truth.We’re not here to judge. We just need to know the real situation so we can adjust your treatment plan and follow-up care.

   
   

4. Stay on top of oral hygiene.Smokers need extra care: gentle brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings are essential.

   
   

5. More check-ups.We may need to see you more frequently to catch early signs of infection or gum inflammation.

   
   

Final Thoughts

Smoking doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants—but it does make the journey riskier. That’s why communication, preparation, and aftercare matter so much.

As your dentist, I’m here to help—not just with your teeth, but with your overall health. If you’re a smoker considering dental implants, let’s talk openly and build a plan that gives you the best possible outcome. Your new smile is worth it.

Booking a consultation with Dr.Thayika (Dr.Chi), please go to: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Thayika