The extraction of wisdom teeth often requires sutures, commonly known as stitches, to assist with healing. These threads close the gum tissue over the surgical site, helping to manage immediate bleeding and protect the underlying area. Sutures hold the edges of the incision together, promoting proper tissue alignment for optimal recovery. Seeing these threads naturally prompts questions about their material, color, and eventual fate.
Types and Colors of Wisdom Teeth Sutures
The color of the stitches depends entirely on the material chosen by the oral surgeon. Surgeons use two main categories of sutures: resorbable (dissolvable) and non-resorbable.
Resorbable sutures are the most frequently used type for wisdom tooth sites, designed to break down naturally over time. These dissolvable threads are often light-colored, such as white or clear when undyed. However, specific materials have distinct colors: Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) is typically violet or purple, and chromic gut may have a yellow or gold color.
Non-resorbable sutures are made from materials like silk or nylon that do not dissolve and must be manually removed. These are less common for routine extraction but may be used when the site requires additional support. Non-resorbable stitches are usually dark, often appearing black or dark blue, making them easier for the surgeon to see. If your stitches are dark, you will likely need a follow-up appointment for removal.
The Timeline: When Sutures Dissolve or Need Removal
The fate of your sutures is determined by their material, directly affecting your post-operative timeline. Resorbable sutures begin dissolving within the oral environment, typically starting to loosen and fall out between 5 and 10 days after surgery. Complete disappearance generally takes between one and three weeks, depending on the specific material and your body’s healing rate.
It is normal to notice small, frayed pieces of the suture material coming loose during this period. The breakdown process is accelerated by enzymes in your saliva. Do not attempt to pull or force these loose threads out, as this can disrupt the surgical site and potentially dislodge the protective blood clot.
If non-resorbable sutures were used, your surgeon will schedule a return visit for their removal. This appointment is typically set for about one week post-surgery (five to seven days). The manual removal process is quick and generally painless, as the tissues have usually healed sufficiently. If your stitches have not dissolved after two weeks, or if you are unsure of the type used, contact your surgeon for guidance.
Post-Operative Suture Care and Concerns
The primary goal of suture care is to keep the surgical site clean without disturbing the protective blood clot. After the initial 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water or a prescribed antibacterial rinse. When rinsing, avoid vigorous swishing or forceful spitting; instead, tilt your head and allow the liquid to gently drain out.
Maintain a soft diet for the first few days to prevent hard or crunchy foods from snagging the stitches or damaging the incision. Avoid anything that creates suction, such as drinking through a straw or smoking. This action can dislodge the blood clot, compromise healing, and lead to a painful condition known as dry socket.
While mild discomfort is expected, contact your oral surgeon if you notice signs of potential complications:
- Persistent, severe pain that does not improve with medication.
- Excessive or uncontrolled bleeding.
- Any discharge of pus or foul odor.
- A non-resorbable suture comes out significantly earlier than the scheduled removal date.