Background:

The impact of smoking on dental implant failure has been a constant topic of discussion for the past decade. Marginal bone loss (MBL) is an indicator of the health status of implants and its increase is one of the risk factors for implant failure.

Aims:

The main objective of this study is to compare the peri-implant marginal bone loss between smoking and non-smoking patients rehabilitated with dental implants at the University of Barcelona Dental Hospital (HOUB).

Methods:

MBL has been analyzed in 36 patients aged 20 to 80 years. The sample was divided into: Group I (smokers, n = 20) and Group II (non-smokers, n = 16). Their smoking habits were recorded in a questionnaire. The measurement of the MBL has been carried out by 3 researchers with different degrees of experience.

Results:

The calculation of the MBL of 36 implants was made by comparing the old radiographs and updated ones. The mean MBL calculated in one year of follow-up presented statistically significant differences between smokers and non-smokers with a -0.17 and -0.04 mm/year, respectively (p<0.05).

Discussion:

It is evident from the published literature that smokers have higher rates of failure and complications after dental implant placement. However, the mechanism by which smoking affects marginal bone loss and implant survival is unknown.

Conclusions:

Peri-implant marginal bone loss is greater in smoking patients than in non-smoking patients.

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