Influence of Smoking on Periodontal and Implant Therapy: A Narrative Review

Background: smoking is considered the most modifiable risk factor for periodontal disease. Objective: the aim of this narrative review is to emphasize the effect of smoking on periodontal and implant therapy. Methods: The authors reviewed the literature reporting the clinical outcomes of smoking on periodontal surgical and nonsurgical treatment. The impact of smoking on implant therapy and sinus lifting procedures were also reviewed. Results: Periodontal and implant therapy outcomes are adversely affected by smoking. Smokers respond less favorably to periodontal therapy and periodontal flap procedures as compared to nonsmokers. Clinical outcomes for smokers are 50–75% worse than for nonsmokers. Studies reveal that smokers experience a significantly lower reduction in pocket depth compared to nonsmokers as well as less bone growth after treating infra-bony defects with guided tissue regeneration. The relative risk of implant failure is significantly higher in patients who smoke 20 cigarettes or more per day compared to nonsmokers. Additionally, smoking has also been shown to increase postoperative wound dehiscence and infection rates following sinus floor elevation. Longitudinal studies on smoke cessation have shown a reduction in bone loss and probing depths for periodontitis patients after cessation compared to those who smoke. Conclusion: Smoking cessation can reduce probing depths and improve clinical attachment after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. There is insufficient evidence regarding the effect of smoking on peri-implantitis, as well as the loss of implants in the long-term.