Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. This surgical intervention frequently involves stitches, also known as sutures, to help the extraction site heal. Patients commonly have questions about these stitches and their dissolution. Understanding them helps manage recovery expectations.
Understanding Dissolvable Stitches
Dissolvable stitches are a type of surgical suture made from materials the body can naturally break down and absorb. These often consist of natural polymers like purified gut or synthetic polymers such as polyglycolic acid (PGA) and polyglactin 910 (Vicryl). They function by holding the edges of a wound together, promoting proper tissue alignment and reducing the risk of complications like infection.
Oral surgeons choose dissolvable stitches for wisdom teeth extractions because they offer convenience for the patient. Since these stitches disintegrate on their own, there is no need for a follow-up appointment for removal, which can reduce discomfort and inconvenience. This self-dissolving property aids natural healing within the mouth’s moist environment.
Typical Dissolution Timeline
After wisdom teeth removal, dissolvable stitches usually begin to break down within a general timeframe. Many types of oral sutures dissolve within 7 to 10 days, though this can vary. Gut sutures dissolve in 7-10 days, while treated chromic gut may take 10-14 days. Synthetic materials like polyglycolic acid (PGA) or polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) typically dissolve within one to three weeks.
The dissolution process is gradual rather than instantaneous. Patients might notice small pieces of the stitches coming loose or falling out, or the material may simply absorb unnoticed. While some stitches might take several weeks to fully dissolve, the majority are gone within one to two weeks, aiding the initial healing of the extraction site.
Factors Influencing Dissolution
The timeline for stitch dissolution can vary among individuals due to several factors. The specific type of suture material used is a main determinant, as different materials have distinct absorption rates. For example, some synthetic sutures are designed for slower degradation to provide longer tissue support. The size and thickness of the suture can also influence how quickly it breaks down, with larger stitches generally taking more time.
The location of the stitches within the mouth also affects dissolution; areas with more saliva exposure or movement may experience faster dissolution due to enzymatic activity. An individual’s unique healing rate, influenced by overall health and metabolism, can also affect how quickly the body absorbs the sutures. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also important, as proper cleaning can promote healthy healing and prevent issues that might impede dissolution.
What to Expect and When to Seek Help
As dissolvable stitches begin to break down, you may notice them loosening or finding small, white or clear pieces in your mouth. A slight odd feeling or minor discomfort is normal, but the stitches should not be painful. It is important to avoid pulling at the stitches, as this can disrupt the healing process and potentially lead to complications. Gentle rinsing with warm salt water, if advised, and continued good oral hygiene can support the healing area.
While the process is generally uneventful, certain signs warrant contacting your oral surgeon or dentist. These include persistent or worsening pain that is not relieved by medication, excessive bleeding, or swelling that increases after the first few days.
Other indicators of a potential issue include a fever, pus or unusual discharge from the extraction site, a persistent bad taste in the mouth, or difficulty opening your mouth. If stitches appear to unravel prematurely or do not seem to be dissolving at all after an extended period (e.g., beyond two weeks), seeking professional guidance is advisable.