Wisdom teeth removal often involves stitches to close the surgical site, promote healing, and minimize complications. This article clarifies the nature of surgical stitches, their dissolution timeline, and what to expect during recovery.
Understanding Surgical Stitches
After wisdom teeth extraction, dentists use two types of stitches: dissolvable (resorbable) and non-dissolvable (non-resorbable). Dissolvable stitches are made from materials that break down naturally within the body, such as purified collagen (gut or chromic gut) or synthetic polymers like Vicryl and Monocryl.
The body’s natural enzymes and fluids gradually break down these materials, causing the stitches to weaken and disappear. This self-dissolving property makes them ideal for oral surgeries, eliminating the need for a follow-up appointment for stitch removal. Non-dissolvable stitches, conversely, are made from materials like silk or nylon that do not break down. If used, a dentist must manually remove them, typically about a week after the procedure.
Factors Influencing Dissolution Time
Dissolvable stitches after wisdom teeth extraction typically dissolve within 3 to 10 days, though some can persist for up to 2 to 3 weeks. Several factors influence this timeline. The type of material used determines dissolution time; for instance, some synthetic sutures may last longer than natural gut sutures.
The thickness of the suture also plays a role, with thicker stitches generally taking more time to dissolve. An individual’s unique healing rate impacts dissolution, as metabolic activity varies among patients. The stitch’s location and tension can also affect breakdown. Areas with greater saliva exposure or mechanical stress, such as from chewing or tongue movement, might experience faster dissolution.
Caring for the Stitched Area
Proper care of the stitched area promotes healing and prevents complications. Gentle oral hygiene is recommended, including careful brushing around the surgical site, avoiding direct contact with stitches. After 24 hours, rinsing with warm salt water several times daily helps keep the area clean and reduces bacteria. Rinse gently, allowing water to passively flow rather than swishing vigorously, to avoid dislodging the blood clot.
Dietary modifications are beneficial; soft foods are advised for the first few days to avoid stressing healing tissues. Avoid sticky, hard-to-chew foods, or those that may leave particles in the stitch area. Also avoid activities that could dislodge the blood clot or stitches, such as vigorous rinsing, spitting, smoking, or using straws, which create negative pressure.
When to Seek Dental Advice
While stitch dissolution is natural, consult a dentist if stitches do not dissolve after an extended period (generally beyond two to three weeks) or cause irritation. Also contact the dental office if stitches come out prematurely, especially within the first few days, to ensure proper healing.
Signs of infection, such as increasing pain, worsening swelling after the first few days, pus discharge, or a fever, require immediate dental attention. Persistent bleeding from the extraction site that does not subside with gentle pressure also warrants contacting a professional. Any severe or escalating discomfort not alleviated by pain medication, or a persistent bad taste, should prompt a call to the dentist for assessment.