When wisdom teeth are removed, stitches are often used to help the surgical site heal properly and reduce the risk of complications. These sutures bring the gum tissue together, stabilizing the area and protecting it from infection. The type of stitches used plays a role in the post-operative experience, particularly in how they are managed and how long they remain in place. Understanding the healing process and what to expect with stitches can help individuals navigate their recovery more smoothly.
Types of Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Following wisdom tooth extraction, dental professionals typically use one of two main types of stitches: dissolvable (also known as absorbable) or non-dissolvable (non-resorbable) sutures. Dissolvable stitches are made from special materials that the body can naturally break down and absorb over time. These materials can include:
Purified catgut (derived from animal intestines)
Polyglycolic acid (PGA)
Polylactic acid (PLA)
Polydioxanone (PDO)
Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl)
The advantage of dissolvable stitches is that they eliminate the need for a follow-up appointment to have them removed, simplifying the recovery process for the patient.
In contrast, non-dissolvable stitches are typically made from materials like silk or nylon that the body cannot absorb. These stitches must be manually removed by a dentist or oral surgeon, usually within 7 to 10 days after the surgery. While less common for routine wisdom tooth extractions, non-dissolvable sutures might be chosen for more complex cases where extra support is needed for a longer period.
The Dissolution Process and Timeline
Dissolvable stitches are designed to gradually break down and be absorbed by the body through natural biological processes, primarily enzymatic degradation and hydrolysis. Enzymes in the body target the suture material, breaking it into smaller components that are then safely metabolized and eliminated. For synthetic materials, hydrolysis—a chemical reaction with water—also contributes to their breakdown.
The timeline for dissolvable stitches to completely disappear varies, typically ranging from a few days to several weeks, or even a couple of months in some cases. For wisdom tooth extractions, dissolvable stitches often start to loosen and dissolve within 7 to 10 days. Specific materials influence this rate: gut sutures may dissolve within 7 to 10 days, chromic gut sutures can last 10 to 14 days, and synthetic Vicryl sutures might take 2 to 3 weeks or even up to 56 to 70 days. Factors such as the specific material of the stitch, the extent of the extraction procedure, the size and type of the stitch, individual healing rates, and oral hygiene practices can all influence how quickly they dissolve. The presence of saliva and the body’s immune response also play a role in the breakdown process.
Monitoring Your Healing and Stitches
As dissolvable stitches begin to break down, it is normal to notice small pieces of the stitch material coming out of your mouth, or feel them becoming loose. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is important during this period. After the first 24 hours post-surgery, gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and reduce inflammation. Avoid vigorous swishing or spitting, as this can dislodge blood clots and delay healing. Stick to soft foods for the first few days to prevent irritation to the surgical site.
It is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience signs that could indicate a complication. These signs include excessive pain that is not relieved by medication or worsens after a few days, persistent or increasing swelling after 2-3 days, or continued bleeding beyond 24 hours. Other warning signs are pus or unusual fluid oozing from the extraction site, a persistent bad taste in your mouth, a fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. Professional evaluation is also recommended if stitches appear to come out too early, the wound reopens, or if they do not seem to be dissolving within the expected timeframe.