Wisdom tooth extraction often requires stitches (sutures) to help the surgical site heal properly. Stitches close the gum tissue flap, securing the blood clot and protecting the underlying bone. This barrier minimizes bleeding and promotes tissue regeneration. Understanding the dissolution timeline is a frequent concern for people recovering from the procedure. This article details the types of sutures used and the expected timeline.
The Difference Between Suture Types
Oral surgeons primarily use two categories of sutures: absorbable (dissolvable) and non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures are the most common choice for wisdom tooth sites because they eliminate the need for a follow-up appointment for removal. These stitches are made from materials like synthetic polymers (e.g., polyglycolic acid) or natural materials (e.g., catgut).
The body’s natural biological processes break down absorbable materials. Enzymes in the tissues and saliva digest the suture material, causing the stitches to lose structural integrity and gradually disintegrate as the wound edges knit together. Non-absorbable stitches, made from materials like silk or nylon, must be manually removed by the clinician, typically about one week after the surgery.
The Typical Dissolution Timeline
For most wisdom tooth extractions using absorbable sutures, dissolution begins within the first few days and is largely complete between 7 and 14 days post-operation. The stitches gradually weaken and fall away in small pieces. Initial loosening is often noticed around the fifth to tenth day, indicating that the gum tissue has healed enough to no longer require support.
The exact speed of dissolution is influenced by the specific material chosen. Some materials are designed for faster absorption, while others, like chromic gut, resist breakdown longer. Constant exposure to saliva and its enzymes accelerates the breakdown process compared to sutures placed elsewhere on the body. Final fragments may take up to a few weeks to completely disappear, depending on the patient’s metabolism and the complexity of the extraction.
What to Expect As Stitches Dissolve
As dissolvable stitches begin to break down, it is common to notice physical changes that signal normal healing. You may feel a rough or scratchy sensation at the surgical site as the threads fray. It is also normal to taste or see small, dark or white pieces of suture material falling out while rinsing or eating.
This process is a natural part of recovery, but specific signs warrant immediate contact with the oral surgeon. Seek advice promptly if a stitch comes out completely within the first 48 hours, or if you experience excessive bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure. Signs of potential infection, such as fever, pus oozing from the site, or severe pain that intensifies after the third day, also require immediate attention. The incision site should gradually feel smoother and less tender as the gum tissue heals.