If you are the owner of a new smile thanks to all-on-4 treatment, you have invested in dentistry in order to look and eat your best. All-on-4 treatment refers to a complete set of teeth fixed to the jaw by several dental implants. It is one of the most lifelike and aesthetic treatment options for people who have lost all their teeth. As no dentistry is indestructible, it is important to know what to do and what to avoid to ensure your all-on-4 treatment is as durable as possible. One thing you should do is to keep up with daily oral hygiene at home. Another thing you can do is to avoid or quit smoking.
All-on-4 treatment relies on the secure integration of dental implants into the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. Smoking disrupts this process by impairing circulation, reducing oxygen delivery, and slowing tissue regeneration, which can threaten the stability and longevity of the implants. Nicotine in cigarettes causes blood vessels to constrict, limiting blood flow to the gums and jaw. This reduced circulation delays healing, increases inflammation, and creates an environment where bacteria can thrive.
Additionally, smoking weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections around the implant sites. Even a minor infection can interfere with the osseointegration process, leading to loosening or failure of the implants. The constant exposure to heat and harmful chemicals from smoking can also irritate delicate gum tissues, slow the formation of healthy bone, and weaken the foundation supporting the new implants.
One of the most serious complications linked to smoking with all-on-4 implants is peri-implantitis. This condition involves inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the implants, often caused by bacterial buildup. In smokers, the risk is significantly higher due to decreased immune response and delayed healing. Peri-implantitis can cause bone loss around the implants, jeopardizing their stability and potentially requiring removal. Early signs include bleeding gums, swelling, and persistent discomfort, all of which require immediate professional attention.
Even after the initial healing period, smoking continues to pose risks to all-on-4 implants. Ongoing tobacco use increases the likelihood of gum disease, bone deterioration, and tissue recession. These changes can expose implant surfaces, reduce support, and eventually cause implant failure. Patients who quit smoking before and after implant placement are more likely to enjoy long-term success, with higher survival rates and fewer complications.
To reduce risks and protect the investment in all-on-4 implants, patients should:
Following these guidelines significantly improves healing outcomes and the long-term stability of the implants.
Smoking with new all-on-4 implants can seriously endanger healing and compromise long-term results. Avoiding tobacco use, following post-surgical instructions, and committing to ongoing dental care greatly increase the chances of implant success. Protecting oral health during and after the healing process ensures that all-on-4 implants remain a strong, functional, and lasting solution for restoring a complete smile.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call our office at (708) 247-2322. To schedule a consultation, please request an appointment on our website at https://lagrangedentalstudio.com or call La Grange Dental Studio at (708) 247-2322 to arrange an appointment at our La Grange office.
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