I spoke with an implant dentist about getting implants. He mentioned he doesn’t treat smokers and then asked if I smoked. I told him no, but the truth is a do sometimes smoke pot, which I wasn’t too keen on sharing. I’m not a cigarette smoker so I assumed it wouldn’t matter, but now I’m wondering if there will be complications. He’s really affordable so I wanted to make sure I got in with him. Other doctors cost more.
Adam K. – Dallas, TX
Adam,
I understand your not wanting to share about the marijuana, but it is always best to be completely honest with your medical providers. I’m sure you like the affordability of this dentist, but you won’t have affordable dental implants for long if the procedure fails.
Talk with your dentist about your habit. Be quite frank with him about how often you smoke marijuana. When you smoke, it reduces the blood flow in your gums. This increases the risk of complications and dental implant failure.
If the procedure does fail, you could lose the implants all together. They could fall out or you could develop a serious infection. This will cost you a small fortune and possibly have severe health consequences.
The decision is yours, of course, but honesty is always best.
This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Ryan Perry.