Dental stitches are a common part of recovery after various oral surgeries, serving to hold tissues together and promote proper healing. These threads stabilize the surgical site and minimize bleeding after procedures like tooth extractions or gum surgeries. By keeping wound edges approximated, stitches help the body form a stable blood clot and protect underlying tissues during the initial healing phase, allowing natural gum repair.
The Two Types of Dental Stitches
Dental professionals primarily use two main types of stitches: resorbable (dissolvable) and non-resorbable (non-dissolvable). Resorbable stitches gradually break down and are absorbed by the body over time, eliminating the need for manual removal. They are often made from materials such as polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, polydioxanone, or treated catgut, which the body’s fluids naturally degrade. These are frequently chosen for procedures where the tissue heals relatively quickly, making a follow-up visit for stitch removal unnecessary.
Non-resorbable stitches are made from materials that the body cannot break down, such as silk, nylon, or polypropylene. These stitches remain intact until they are manually removed by a dentist or oral surgeon. They provide strong, prolonged support to the surgical site, which can be beneficial in cases where tissues are under more tension or require extended stabilization. The choice between these two types depends on factors like the specific procedure, the location of the stitches, and the anticipated healing time.
What to Expect as You Heal
The healing process with dental stitches varies depending on their type. If resorbable stitches were used, they typically begin to loosen and dissolve within a few days to a couple of weeks after surgery. Some common resorbable materials like plain gut may dissolve in 5 to 7 days, while others like chromic gut or polyglycolic acid can take 7 to 14 days or even up to 2 to 3 weeks. You might notice small pieces of thread coming loose or falling out into your mouth, which is a normal part of the dissolution process.
For non-resorbable stitches, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled for their removal, usually within 7 to 14 days after the procedure. The removal process is generally quick and causes minimal discomfort, often not requiring anesthesia. During the initial healing period for both stitch types, it is common to experience mild discomfort, some swelling that usually peaks around 2 to 3 days post-surgery, and slight bleeding or oozing for the first 24 to 48 hours. Maintaining oral hygiene by gently brushing around the surgical site and rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours can help promote a clean healing environment.
When to Seek Dental Advice
While some discomfort and minor changes are normal during healing, certain signs indicate that you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon. If your pain intensifies instead of improving after the first few days, or if swelling worsens or does not subside within 2 to 3 days, it could signal a problem. Other indicators of a potential issue include persistent bleeding beyond the first 24 hours, the presence of pus or a foul discharge from the surgical site, or an unpleasant taste or smell in your mouth.
You should also seek advice if stitches, especially non-resorbable ones, come out prematurely and are accompanied by significant bleeding or pain. If non-dissolvable stitches remain in place well beyond their expected removal date, or if any stitches feel unusually tight or cause ongoing irritation, it is advisable to consult with your dental professional. Prompt communication ensures that any complications can be addressed efficiently, supporting a smooth recovery.