Dental Implants
Can Smokers Have Dental Implants?
Smokers can have dental implants, but smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure and complications. Many dentists recommend quitting or reducing smoking before and after implant surgery.
Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for dental implant failure. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco restrict blood flow to the gums and bone, impairing healing and increasing the risk of infection around the implant site.
Research consistently shows that smokers have higher implant failure rates compared to non-smokers — particularly in the healing phase after surgery.
If you smoke and are considering implants:
- Be honest with your dentist about your smoking habits
- Many practitioners recommend quitting or significantly reducing smoking for at least two weeks before and after surgery
- Your dentist may adjust the treatment plan or timeline based on your smoking status
- Implant success is still possible for smokers, but expectations should be realistic
Other factors that affect implant suitability include overall health, gum disease, bone density, and oral hygiene habits.
The Australian Dental Association provides resources on the impact of smoking on oral health. Quitting smoking benefits not only your implants but your overall dental and general health.
A thorough clinical assessment will determine whether implants are a suitable option for you.
Important Patient Information
- • Every patient requires an individual clinical assessment.
- • Not every patient is suitable for every treatment.
- • Treatment recommendations differ between patients.
- • All procedures involve risks and benefits.
- • Expected outcomes vary between individuals.
Information on this website is general in nature only and does not constitute financial, taxation or legal advice. A consultation with a qualified dental practitioner is required to determine suitability for any treatment. Where superannuation is discussed, eligibility and approval are determined by the ATO and are not guaranteed.