If you’re a smoker considering dental implants, you may be wondering: Can I still get implants? The short answer is yes—but there are important things to know first.

At Smart Arches, we’ve helped thousands of patients, including current and former smokers, successfully restore their smile with full-mouth dental implants. The key is understanding how smoking affects dental implants and what steps you can take to improve your outcome.

How Smoking Affects Dental Implants

Smoking doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting implants, but it does increase the risk of complications during healing. Here’s how:

  • Reduced blood flow: Nicotine restricts circulation to the gums, slowing down healing and increasing the risk of infection.

  • Poor osseointegration: This is the process where your jawbone fuses to the implant. Smoking interferes with this essential step, making implant failure more likely.

  • Increased inflammation: Smokers are more prone to dry mouth, gum irritation, and oral bacteria, all of which can compromise recovery.

  • Weakened immune response: Your body’s ability to fight infection and regenerate tissue is reduced when smoking regularly.

Can You Get Dental Implants If You Smoke?

Yes — many smokers are still great candidates for dental implants, especially with the right planning and support. At Smart Arches, we create a customized, supportive treatment plan for every patient, including those who use tobacco.

Here’s what we do to support you:

  • Comprehensive oral evaluation, including gum health and bone density

  • Advanced digital scans for precise planning

  • Sedation dentistry to reduce stress and support smoother healing

  • Pre- and post-op care tailored for smokers

  • Bone grafting or sinus lifts, if necessary for bone support

???? Learn more: Bone Grafting & Sinus Lift Procedures for Implants

Do You Need to Quit Smoking Before Dental Implant Surgery?

You don’t have to quit permanently — but quitting temporarily can make a big difference. Studies show that patients who stop smoking at least 1–2 weeks before surgery and remain smoke-free during the healing period experience:

  • Faster, healthier recovery

  • Reduced risk of implant failure

  • Better long-term implant integration

Even cutting back can improve your odds of success.

close up of hand holding broken cigarette stk
close up of hand holding broken cigarette stk

???? Explore: Healing Tips After Dental Implant Surgery

Originally published: February 1, 2024
Last updated: August 13, 2025