A New Smile Dental Canyon Country Blog

Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They restore your smile, protect your jawbone, and function like natural teeth. But if you’re a smoker, you may be wondering whether you’re a good candidate for this procedure.

The short answer? It’s possible, but there are important risks and considerations to keep in mind.

How Smoking Affects Dental Implants

Successful dental implant treatment depends on your body’s ability to heal. After an implant is placed, the jawbone needs time to fuse with the implant through a process called osseointegration. Smoking interferes with this healing process in several ways:

• Restricted Blood Flow: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the gums and bones. This impairs healing and makes it harder for the implant to integrate properly.
• Weakened Immune Response: Smoking compromises the immune system, increasing the risk of infection at the implant site.
• Dry Mouth: Smoking often leads to reduced saliva production, creating a dry environment in the mouth that can encourage bacterial growth.

These factors contribute to a significantly higher risk of implant failure in smokers. According to research, smokers experience implant failure at a rate that is 2–3 times higher than non-smokers.

Can Smokers Still Get Dental Implants?

Yes, but with precautions. While smoking does not automatically disqualify you from receiving dental implants, your dentist may recommend that you quit smoking before and after surgery to improve your chances of success. Many implant specialists advise patients to stop smoking at least one week before the procedure and for several months afterward.

Your dentist will also evaluate your oral health, bone density, and overall medical history to determine whether you’re a good candidate. Some smokers may require additional treatments, such as bone grafts or gum disease therapy, before implants can be safely placed.

Tips for Smokers Considering Dental Implants

If you’re a smoker thinking about getting dental implants, here are some steps to take:

• Commit to Quitting or Reducing Smoking: Even temporary cessation before and after surgery can improve healing and reduce complications.
• Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine cleanings.
• Be Honest with Your Dentist: Let your dental provider know about your smoking habits so they can customize your treatment plan accordingly.
• Follow Post-Op Instructions Carefully: This includes medication, oral hygiene guidelines, and activity restrictions to support healing.

About the Practice

A New Smile Dental Group in Canyon Country, Santa Clarita, CA, provides expert implant dentistry for patients looking to restore missing teeth with lasting results. Led by Dr. Parham Ramtin’s skilled team of professionals, the practice offers comprehensive care—from initial consultation to implant placement and final restoration—all in a welcoming, state-of-the-art environment. Whether you’re a smoker or not, the team works closely with each patient to ensure the highest chance of success and a beautiful new smile.

Call us today at (661) 630-4001 or book your appointment online.

When it comes to straightening teeth, Invisalign is one of the most exciting options available – and if you’re undergoing the process yourself, you’re probably enjoying all of the conveniences and benefits that come with the clear aligners. That said, it’s possible that as you near the end of your anticipated timeline, your provider might mention that you need refinements to complete your treatment. Here’s a closer look at how these refinements work.  

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If you have dental veneers, you may need to replace them in the coming year. These porcelain shells don’t last forever; even the best ones wear down and break over time. Luckily enough, learning whether you should get replacements isn’t that hard. Your Santa Clarita dentist can walk you through how to tell if it’s time to switch to new shells. To that end, keep reading to discover four signs your veneers need replacing.

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If you’re frustrated by stubbornly stained, chipped, slightly misaligned, or otherwise imperfect teeth, you’re not alone! An estimated 50 million cosmetic dental procedures are performed in the U.S. each year. These treatments only continue to gain popularity as more people realize that there are accessible solutions to help them upgrade their grins.

Once you’ve achieved your desired results, it’s natural to want to do everything you can to keep them. Continue reading to learn about three popular services and their longevity so you can make an informed decision about your smile!

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Dental emergencies are unexpected by definition, but they aren’t always unavoidable. The world is full of dangers to your dental health like tripping hazards, harmful oral bacteria, sports injuries, and the like, but being smart about how you navigate them can help you minimize the risk of anything damaging your smile. Here are a few ways that you can keep your teeth farther from harm’s way so you can avoid needing emergency dental appointments.

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Nobody plans to have a dental emergency, but if you have a toothache it’s time to call your dentist! There are several underlying factors that might be contributing to your pain, so an accurate diagnosis is essential for treatment and relief. Fortunately, the nature of the discomfort you’re in can tell your dentist a lot about what could be causing it so they can provide solutions. Keep reading to learn more about 3 common types of toothaches and how to address them.

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