Dissolvable sutures (absorbable sutures) are used in oral surgery to temporarily close incisions after procedures like tooth extractions, gum grafts, or dental implant placement. These threads hold the edges of the gum tissue together, providing a stable environment for the initial healing phase. They are made from materials the body naturally breaks down and absorbs over time, eliminating the need for manual removal.
What They Look Like
Dissolvable stitches are generally thin and thread-like, though their appearance varies based on the material chosen by the surgeon. Common colors include yellow-gold (often chromic gut material), violet (frequently synthetic polymers like Vicryl), or clear white. Dyes are often added to make the fine thread more visible for the clinician during the procedure and for monitoring afterward. Undyed materials appear white or clear, especially for use in more visible areas of the mouth.
The texture is typically smooth, but braided materials may feel slightly rough or “scratchy” to the tongue. Stitches usually appear as small loops or knots holding the gum tissue closed over the surgical site. As they begin to dissolve, they may look looser, shorter, or appear to be hanging from the tissue. Colored versions may become off-white or translucent as the dye breaks down.
How Long Until They Dissolve
The timeline for complete dissolution depends primarily on the suture material and the type of surgery performed. Most dissolvable stitches begin to loosen and break down within 5 to 14 days. Complete absorption can take anywhere from one week up to four weeks, particularly after complex surgeries like wisdom tooth removal or extensive gum grafting.
The process is called hydrolysis, where the body’s moisture and enzymes gradually break down the polymer material. The dentist selects a material with a specific dissolution rate that matches the expected healing time. For example, a simple extraction may use a faster-dissolving material than a dental implant procedure, which requires longer tissue support. Small pieces of the suture coming loose or falling out is a normal sign that healing is progressing. Allow the stitches to dissolve naturally and avoid pulling on them.
Essential Care Instructions
Proper care is necessary to ensure the stitches remain intact long enough to promote healing and prevent complications. For the first 24 hours, avoid aggressive rinsing or spitting, as this can dislodge the blood clot and disrupt the stitches. After this initial period, gently rinsing with a warm salt water solution helps keep the area clean and aids in healing.
When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean the areas surrounding the stitches gently, avoiding brushing directly over the surgical site. A soft diet is recommended, particularly in the first few days, to prevent hard or crunchy foods from snagging on the sutures or irritating the wound. Avoid actions that create suction, such as smoking or using a straw, during the initial healing phase. Smoking increases the risk of infection and slows the healing process.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some discomfort and minor swelling are expected after oral surgery, certain signs indicate a potential complication that requires professional attention. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience excessive or uncontrolled bleeding that does not subside after applying gentle pressure. A sudden increase in pain that is not relieved by prescribed or over-the-counter medication is also a cause for concern.
Signs of infection warrant an urgent call, including a persistent foul taste or odor coming from the surgical site, a fever, or swelling that increases significantly after the first 48 hours post-surgery. If the stitches come undone completely and expose the wound prematurely, or if they are still fully intact long after the expected two-week dissolution period, you should schedule a checkup. These symptoms suggest the healing process may be compromised.