Wisdom teeth extraction is a common oral surgery. Stitches are often used after removal of these third molars to help the surgical site heal properly. These sutures stabilize gum tissue, control bleeding, and protect the area from infection.
Understanding Your Stitches
After wisdom teeth removal, dental professionals typically use two main types of stitches: dissolvable and non-dissolvable. Dissolvable stitches, made from materials like gut or Vicryl, naturally break down and are absorbed by the body, eliminating the need for manual removal. Non-dissolvable stitches, such as silk or nylon, do not dissolve and require removal by a dental professional during a follow-up appointment.
When Dissolvable Stitches Typically Fall Out
Dissolvable stitches are commonly used after wisdom teeth extraction and gradually disintegrate as the surgical site heals. They typically fall out or dissolve within 5 to 10 days, though this can extend up to 2 weeks or even a month. Patients might notice small pieces of the stitches coming out or feeling loose. Several factors influence the rate at which stitches dissolve, including the specific material used, the extent of the extraction procedure, individual healing rate, and saliva enzymes.
What to Do If Stitches Don’t Behave as Expected
If dissolvable stitches do not fall out within the expected timeframe (e.g., after two weeks) or cause discomfort, contact your dental professional. They can assess if removal is needed. If a stitch comes out prematurely within the first 24 to 48 hours, it is often not a significant concern unless accompanied by excessive bleeding, worsening pain, or a visible opening of the wound. In such instances, contacting your dentist is recommended. Non-dissolvable stitches will not fall out on their own; they must be removed by an oral surgeon or dentist, typically during a follow-up appointment scheduled around 7 to 10 days after the surgery.
Caring for Your Surgical Site and Stitches
Proper aftercare is important for maintaining the surgical site and supporting the integrity of the stitches, promoting effective healing. After the initial 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This can be prepared by dissolving about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and it helps to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid vigorous swishing or forceful spitting, as this could dislodge blood clots or stitches.
Adhering to a soft food diet for the first few days post-surgery is advised to prevent irritation or damage to the healing area and stitches. Foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are often recommended. Also, avoid touching the surgical area with your fingers or tongue. Following these care instructions helps prevent complications that could affect stitch healing, such as infection or dislodgment of the protective blood clot.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Certain signs and symptoms following wisdom teeth extraction may indicate a potential complication, warranting professional dental or oral surgeon advice. These include excessive or persistent bleeding that does not stop with pressure, or severe pain that worsens and is not managed by prescribed medication. Increasing swelling after the third or fourth day post-surgery can also be a cause for concern. Signs of infection, such as fever, discharge of pus, a foul taste or odor in the mouth, or redness around the extraction site, require immediate attention. Persistent numbness beyond the expected timeframe for anesthesia, or if the surgical wound appears to have opened significantly, should also prompt a call to your dental professional. It is always best to contact your dentist or oral surgeon with any questions or concerns regarding your recovery.