After a wisdom tooth is removed, the surgical site is often closed with stitches, also known as sutures, to promote a secure healing environment. The procedure typically involves creating an incision in the gum tissue to access and remove the tooth, leaving behind a wound that needs to be sealed. Stitches perform the important function of holding the gum tissue edges together to stabilize the wound site. This closure helps to control bleeding immediately following the procedure and provides a physical barrier against food particles and bacteria. By keeping the underlying blood clot undisturbed, the sutures aid the initial healing process and protect the area from potential infection.
Understanding the Two Types of Stitches
The question of how long stitches remain depends entirely on the type of material the oral surgeon selected for the closure. Dental professionals primarily use two categories of sutures: resorbable and non-resorbable. Resorbable sutures, commonly referred to as dissolvable stitches, are made from materials that the body can naturally break down over time. These are the most frequent choice for wisdom tooth extractions because they eliminate the need for a follow-up appointment for removal. Conversely, non-resorbable stitches are made from materials like silk, nylon, or polyester, which the body cannot absorb.
The Timeline for Dissolvable Stitches
For the majority of patients who receive dissolvable sutures after wisdom tooth removal, the general timeline for them to start coming out is within the first week. Most absorbable stitches are designed to begin disintegrating and falling out on their own approximately 7 to 10 days after the surgery. It is common to notice small, loose pieces of the thread in the mouth during this period, which is a normal indication that the material is being broken down. While the supportive function of the stitches is usually completed within 10 to 14 days, the complete disappearance of the material can take longer. Factors influencing this dissolution speed include the specific material used, the size of the stitch, and the patient’s own healing rate. For instance, sutures made from natural materials tend to dissolve faster than synthetic polymer sutures, which can sometimes take up to a month to fully resorb.
Managing Non-Dissolvable Stitches
If non-dissolvable sutures were used, they will not break down on their own and require manual removal by the dental care provider. The typical timeline for this necessary follow-up visit is usually scheduled between 7 and 14 days after the extraction. This timeframe allows the initial wound healing to occur while the sutures continue to hold the gum tissue securely in place. The removal of non-dissolvable sutures is a routine, generally quick procedure that involves the dentist snipping the thread and gently pulling it out. Attending this scheduled appointment is important to ensure the sutures do not cause irritation or interfere with the progress of wound maturation.
Post-Stitch Care and Healing Concerns
After the stitches have dissolved or been removed, the focus shifts to monitoring the ongoing recovery of the extraction site. Healing is progressing normally when swelling continues to subside, and the small hole left by the tooth begins to visibly close and fill in. However, patients need to remain vigilant for signs that healing is not proceeding as expected.
Dry Socket
The onset of dry socket is a serious concern. This painful condition occurs when the protective blood clot is dislodged or dissolves prematurely. This often causes intense pain that starts a few days post-surgery and can radiate up the jaw to the ear.
Signs of Infection
Signs of a possible infection warrant immediate contact with the dental office, especially if pain or swelling worsens after the first few days instead of improving. Other indicators of infection include:
- A persistent bad taste in the mouth.
- Foul breath not relieved by rinsing.
- The appearance of white or yellow pus draining from the wound site.
Failure to remove non-resorbable threads can also increase the risk of localized inflammation or infection over time. Any experience of continuous bleeding for more than 24 hours or the development of a fever also suggests a complication that requires professional evaluation.