Dental implants are a reliable, long-term solution for missing teeth. But if you smoke, you might be wondering—will it put your investment at risk? The short answer: it can. Smoking complicates healing and increases the chances of implant failure. That doesn’t mean implants are off the table, but it does mean you’ll need a plan. Let’s break down how smoking affects the process—and what you can do to boost your odds of success.
Why Smoking Makes Implant Success Less Likely
Nicotine restricts blood flow, which directly impacts your body’s ability to heal. After implant placement, tissues and bone need strong circulation to recover and support osseointegration—the process where the implant fuses with the jaw. With limited blood supply, healing slows, and the risk of complications increases.
How Smoking Impacts Implant Healing
After an implant is placed, your jawbone needs to fuse with it in a process called osseointegration. Smoking interferes with this critical healing phase, slowing bone growth and reducing tissue recovery. Nicotine restricts circulation, so the implant may not integrate as intended. That’s why healing from implant surgery takes longer for many smokers.
Peri-Implantitis: A Hidden Risk
Peri‑implantitis is a condition similar to gum disease that affects the area around an implant. It causes inflammation and bone loss, which can lead to implant loosening or failure. Smokers face a higher likelihood of developing peri‑implantitis—often without clear symptoms at first—making regular follow‑ups essential.
Practical Steps to Improve Implant Success
Even if quitting completely isn’t an immediate option, you can still reduce risks:
Cut back on tobacco use before and after surgery
Practice excellent oral hygiene—brush and floss carefully
Attend all follow‑up appointments and cleanings
Avoid alcohol or other substances that interfere with healing
Every step you take improves the chances for a healthy, lasting outcome.
Implants Can Still Be an Option
Every patient is different. Some smokers still have excellent results with implants—especially those who take extra care during recovery. If you’re motivated to protect your investment, your dental team can help you create a personalized strategy to support long-term health.
Dental Implants and Smoking: What to Expect at Riverstone Dental Care in Idaho
At Riverstone Dental Care—serving Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, and Hayden—we’re here to help you make informed choices about your smile. If you smoke and are considering dental implants, we’ll talk through the risks, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan that supports your long-term health. Call today to schedule a consultation and find out if implants are the right solution for you.
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
