Experiencing stitches after wisdom tooth removal can naturally lead to questions about their purpose and expected behavior. This article clarifies the role of stitches following extraction, detailing what to expect as you recover and identifying when professional dental advice is necessary.
Understanding Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Stitches are commonly used after wisdom tooth extraction to help the surgical site heal properly. Their function is to close the gum tissue flap created during the extraction, which helps stabilize the area. Stitches also promote healing, minimize bleeding, and protect the developing blood clot from dislodgment, which is essential for preventing complications like dry socket.
There are two types of stitches used in oral surgery: dissolvable and non-dissolvable. Dissolvable stitches are made from materials that the body naturally breaks down over time, eliminating the need for a follow-up appointment for removal. Non-dissolvable stitches, made from materials like nylon or silk, require a dentist or oral surgeon to remove them once the healing has progressed sufficiently. Your surgeon informs you about the type of stitches used.
When Stitches Typically Dissolve or Fall Out
For most wisdom tooth extractions, dissolvable stitches are used, and it is normal for them to break down and fall out on their own. This process occurs within a few days to a couple of weeks, with many dissolving within 7 to 10 days. The exact timeframe can vary depending on the type and size of the stitch material, the extent of the extraction procedure, and an individual’s healing response. You might notice small pieces of stitch material or even an entire stitch coming out as they disintegrate.
If non-dissolvable stitches were used, they will not dissolve on their own. Your dental professional will schedule an appointment for their removal, within 7 to 14 days after the surgery. Do not attempt to remove them yourself, as this can disrupt the healing process and potentially introduce bacteria.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some changes in your stitches are normal during healing, certain signs warrant contacting your dentist or oral surgeon. If your stitches fall out too early, particularly within the first day or two after surgery, and this is accompanied by increased bleeding, pain, or if the extraction site appears exposed, seek professional guidance. Early stitch loss can increase the risk of complications such as a dry socket if the protective blood clot is dislodged.
You should also contact your dentist if dissolvable stitches have not dissolved or fallen out after the expected timeframe, generally two weeks. Signs of infection require immediate attention, including worsening pain, increased swelling, redness around the extraction site, a persistent bad taste in your mouth, or the presence of pus or unusual discharge. Continuous or heavy bleeding that does not subside with pressure, or bleeding that reappears after having stopped, should also prompt a call to your dental office. Always follow your post-operative instructions carefully.