When a wisdom tooth is removed, the oral surgeon often closes the incision in the gum tissue with sutures. The primary function of these stitches is to manage bleeding and hold the gum edges together to protect the underlying blood clot, which is essential for healing. The duration the stitches remain in place depends entirely on the material used by the surgeon.
The Two Types of Wisdom Teeth Stitches
Following an extraction, two main categories of sutures are used to close the surgical site. Absorbable sutures are made from materials designed to break down naturally within the body, offering convenience to the patient. Non-absorbable sutures, made from materials like silk or nylon, are stronger and require a follow-up appointment for removal. The choice between the two often depends on the complexity of the extraction and the surgeon’s preference.
The Expected Timeline for Dissolvable Sutures
The vast majority of wisdom tooth extractions utilize absorbable sutures, which are engineered to disintegrate over time. These stitches typically begin to loosen and fall out within a window of 5 to 10 days post-procedure. The material breaks down through a process called hydrolysis, where water molecules in the body gradually split the suture material.
It is common for patients to notice small, gritty pieces of thread coming away from the site after the first week, which is a normal sign of the material dissolving. Depending on the specific material and the patient’s individual healing rate, some sutures may take up to two weeks or more to fully dissipate.
If a suture comes loose early, such as within the first couple of days, it is usually not a cause for concern as long as the surgical site is not actively bleeding. The goal of the suture is to secure the clot during the most fragile initial healing period. Patients should avoid attempting to remove any loose threads themselves, allowing the natural process to continue.
Navigating Non-Dissolvable Stitch Removal
While less common for routine wisdom tooth removal, non-absorbable sutures are sometimes used when a more robust or prolonged tissue closure is necessary. Since these sutures will not dissolve, they must be manually removed by a dental professional. This removal is typically scheduled five to seven days after the extraction to ensure sufficient initial healing. The procedure is quick and involves the dentist clipping the thread near the knot and gently pulling the suture out.
Protecting the Sutures During Healing
Proper care is necessary to keep the sutures intact and clean, regardless of whether they are dissolving or require removal. Following these guidelines helps prevent complications and ensures successful healing and the protection of the blood clot:
- Commit to a diet of soft foods for the initial days to prevent sharp or crunchy particles from snagging or dislodging the threads.
- Chewing should be done gently and preferably on the side of the mouth opposite the extraction site.
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene; brushing should continue, but avoid the surgical area itself with the toothbrush for the first week.
- Starting 24 hours after surgery, use salt water rinses to keep the area clean, tilting the head rather than vigorously swishing or spitting.
- Avoid activities that create suction, such as smoking or using a straw, as they can pull the stitches loose and lead to a complication known as dry socket.
If a patient experiences significant bleeding, severe pain that worsens, or loss of the entire suture line within the first two days, they should contact their oral surgeon immediately.