Tooth extraction stitches are a common part of the healing process after a tooth has been removed. These sutures serve a specific purpose: to secure the gum tissue around the extraction site. By holding the edges of the wound together, stitches help to control bleeding, promote the formation of a stable blood clot, and protect the open area from food particles and bacteria. This closure also helps to reduce the risk of complications such as a dry socket, where the blood clot dislodges prematurely.
Understanding Dissolvable Stitches and Their Timeline
Most dental stitches used after a tooth extraction are designed to dissolve on their own, eliminating the need for a follow-up appointment. These absorbable stitches are made from specialized materials that gradually break down and are absorbed by the body. The dissolving process typically begins within a few days to a week.
Complete dissolution of these stitches usually occurs within 3 to 10 days, though some may take up to two weeks. Common materials include synthetic polymers like polyglycolic acid (Vicryl) or natural materials like catgut. The body gradually breaks down these materials as part of the natural healing response.
What Influences Dissolution and When to Seek Advice
Several factors influence how quickly dissolvable stitches break down. The specific type of stitch material affects the rate of absorption; for example, Vicryl stitches often dissolve within 7 to 10 days. An individual’s healing rate also affects the timeline. The size, location, and complexity of the extraction site can also impact how long stitches remain. Stitches in areas with more movement or saliva flow may take longer to dissolve.
As the stitches dissolve, patients might notice them feeling a bit loose or even falling out in small pieces, which is a normal part of the process. Maintaining good oral hygiene by gently brushing and rinsing with warm salt water, while avoiding the immediate extraction site, can support healing. Avoiding vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws can help prevent dislodging the blood clot and stitches.
Contact your dentist if the stitches have not dissolved within the expected two-week timeframe or if you experience concerning symptoms. These include:
Persistent or worsening pain that does not respond to medication.
Excessive bleeding that doesn’t subside with pressure.
Signs of infection such as fever, increasing swelling, unusual odors, foul taste, or pus drainage from the site.
Lingering numbness beyond the initial hours or difficulty breathing and swallowing.