According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetics (AANA), e-cigarettes may cause complication during and after dental surgery. Although e-cigarettes have been labeled “healthier,” they still contain nicotine which can affect the healing process and have an impact during and after any dental surgery.

We need proper oxygen circulation throughout our body in order to keep organs functioning and allow our body to heal properly. When you introduce nicotine into your body, it makes it more difficult for the oxygen to heal wounds properly. This means that if you have surgery, the wounds are more at a risk of infection in smokers than non-smokers.

Smoking may also lead to a higher risk of gum disease. Gum disease can cause bleeding gums, tooth loss and other health problems such as cardiac disease. Another issue that can arise from smokers is coughing during treatment. Coughing can pose problems for doctors that are working on your mouth, especially when they are using drills.

If you are a smoker, it is important that you avoid smoking for 12-24 hours following your dental procedure. You need to allow time for the wound to heal, and, when you smoke, it causes pressure in your mouth that can remove the clot, causing a painful experience called “dry socket.”

If you would like to learn some techniques to quit smoking for the new year, we recommend viewing these tips.

If you are concerned about the health of your gums be sure to schedule an appointment with us today. Smokers are also encouraged to schedule an appointment to have your gums examined and make sure that any health issues can be addressed.