The removal of wisdom teeth often requires sutures, or stitches, to help the gum tissue heal properly. These sutures hold the gum flaps together, protect the underlying bone, and secure the blood clot that forms in the empty socket. Understanding how these stitches are managed, particularly knowing when they will disappear or be removed, is a major part of the recovery.
Types of Sutures Used in Oral Surgery
Oral surgeons typically choose between two main categories of sutures for wisdom tooth extraction: absorbable and non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures are made from specialized materials, such as synthetic polymers like polyglactin or polyglycolic acid, that the body’s tissues naturally break down and absorb over time. This removes the need for a follow-up appointment for stitch removal. Non-absorbable sutures, made from materials such as silk or nylon, remain intact until manually removed by the surgeon. These are sometimes used when the surgeon needs a stronger, longer-lasting closure. Patients should confirm with their oral surgeon which type of suture was used, as this dictates the recovery plan.
The Typical Dissolution Timeline
For patients who receive absorbable sutures, the typical timeframe for dissolution generally ranges from five to fourteen days following the surgery. Most patients will notice the stitches starting to loosen and disappear within the first one to two weeks. The rate at which this happens is influenced by the specific type of suture material used; for example, polyglactin often breaks down within seven to ten days. The body’s individual healing rate, which is affected by factors like overall health, also plays a role in the speed of the breakdown process. As the stitches dissolve, patients may notice them feeling rougher or scratchy, or they may see small, white pieces of the material falling out. This is a normal sign of the process.
Care and Management While Stitches Remain
Maintaining gentle oral hygiene is important while the sutures are in place to prevent irritation and infection at the surgical site. Patients should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing directly over the stitches for the first few days. Gentle rinsing with a warm salt water solution helps keep the area clean, but aggressive spitting or swishing must be avoided, as this can dislodge the blood clot and disrupt the stitches. Dietary adjustments are also necessary to protect the sutures and the healing wound. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything sharp, crunchy, or sticky that could catch on or pull the stitches. If a small piece of dissolvable suture becomes loose, do not pull or prod it; allow it to fall out naturally as it continues to dissolve.
Signs That Require Professional Consultation
While some minor discomfort and swelling are expected, certain symptoms indicate a complication requiring consultation with the oral surgeon. Increasing pain after the first few days, especially if it is sharp or throbbing, may signal an issue like a dry socket. Swelling that worsens after the third day post-surgery or spreads to the face is also a cause for concern. Other signs of a potential problem include the oozing of yellow or white pus from the extraction site or a persistent, foul taste, which suggests an infection. If a non-dissolvable suture comes out prematurely, or if any suture loss results in the wound opening significantly or bleeding excessively, seek professional guidance immediately.