If you spend the money on gum surgery, whether it’s for cosmedic or medical reasons, it’s in your best interest to spend the effort on quitting cigarettes.
A recent study shows that smoking after periodontal surgery could lead to a bigger problem than what warranted correction in the first place.
The study followed 20 patients-half of which are smokers-after a surgical gum treatment. After two years, gum recession in the smokers was notably greater.
In addition to smoking inhibiting the healing process after any kind of surgery, researchers believe that in periodontal plastic surgery, smoking can essentially undo the procedure.
Smokers looking to undergo gum surgery should ask their dentist about smoking cessation programs so they can achieve optimal results from their procedure.