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While most people are familiar with the concept that smoking can damage their lungs, few recognize just how dangerous it can be to your teeth and gums—especially if you are undergoing restorative procedures like dental implant placement. Unfortunately, even simple changes to the oral tissue can cause serious side effects while it heals. Here’s why dentists recommend quitting the habit. 

How Smoking Harms Dental Implants

1. Pathogens

When you smoke, you are introducing your teeth, gums, tongue, and palate to many pathogens that cause illness, including ammonia, formaldehyde, arsenic, DDT, and hydrogen cyanide. Because these ingredients interrupt natural cell receptors, they contribute to oral cancer, which destroys dental implants and increase the risk of premature death. While dentists can detect lesions early through preventive exams, avoiding smoking can help you to protect your implants from problems in the first place. 

2. Keratosis 

dentistSmoking also exposes oral tissues to hot vapors, which burn the gums and lead to a condition called keratosis. As it develops, it thickens the skin of the mouth, interfering with blood flow and making it difficult for your mouth to heal. Since dental implant sites need time to integrate with the natural bone tissue, keratosis can cause them to fail. Dentists advise their patients that by quitting smoking, they improve their oral health and protect their investments. 

3. Dry Mouth

Xerostomia, also called dry mouth, is another side effect of smoking and makes it difficult for the body to deal with the dangers posed by oral bacteria. With less saliva in the mouth to rinse away food particles and neutralize bacterial acids, smokers are more susceptible to oral decay, periodontal disease, and infections around the implant post. 

 

It isn’t always easy to tell how your daily habits are affecting your oral health. Be proactive and speak with the professionals at Main Street Dental about your concerns and situation. From preventive dental exams to consultations, the kind and caring La Crosse, WI, dentists have the experience and advanced tools to help you achieve your best smile. To learn more about them, visit the website, or call (608) 784-4063 to schedule an appointment today.

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