Having your wisdom teeth removed is a significant oral surgery, and understanding the post-operative healing process is crucial for a smooth recovery. One common question patients have is: when do stitches dissolve after wisdom teeth removal? The answer isn't a single number of days, as it depends on several factors. Let's delve into the specifics.
What Type of Stitches Are Used?
Before we discuss dissolving times, it's important to understand the types of stitches used. Oral surgeons typically use two main types:
- Dissolvable stitches (absorbable sutures): These are made from materials designed to gradually break down and dissolve within the body. This usually happens over a period of several days or weeks.
- Non-dissolvable stitches (non-absorbable sutures): These stitches require removal by your dentist or oral surgeon after a certain period. This is typically scheduled a few days after surgery.
How Long Do Dissolvable Stitches Take to Dissolve?
Dissolvable stitches used after wisdom teeth removal typically begin to dissolve within 7 to 14 days. However, this is just an average timeframe. The actual dissolving time can vary depending on several factors:
- Type of suture material: Different materials dissolve at different rates. Your oral surgeon will choose the material best suited for your specific needs and healing process.
- Individual healing process: Every patient heals at a different pace. Some individuals may experience faster healing than others.
- Infection: An infection can slow down the healing process and delay the dissolving time of the stitches.
- Location of the stitches: Stitches placed in areas with more movement or stress might take longer to dissolve.
When Should I Call My Dentist or Oral Surgeon?
Even if you're using dissolvable stitches, it's important to monitor the healing process and contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you notice any of the following:
- Excessive bleeding: Persistent bleeding that soaks through gauze is a cause for concern.
- Severe pain: Pain that doesn't respond to prescribed medication warrants a check-up.
- Signs of infection: Swelling, redness, pus, or a foul odor from the extraction site should be addressed promptly.
- Stitches that haven't started dissolving after three weeks: While dissolvable, there's a variance, but prolonged persistence necessitates a visit.
- Opening of the wound: Any significant widening of the extraction site needs evaluation.
What if I have non-dissolvable stitches?
If your oral surgeon used non-dissolvable stitches, they will schedule a follow-up appointment to remove them, typically within 7 to 10 days after the surgery. Failure to attend this appointment could lead to complications.
How can I promote faster healing?
Following your oral surgeon's post-operative instructions diligently is key to promoting faster healing. This includes:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene: Gently rinsing your mouth with salt water multiple times a day will help keep the extraction site clean.
- Following dietary instructions: Stick to a soft food diet to avoid irritating the healing area.
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol: These can hinder healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Taking prescribed medication: Adhere strictly to the prescribed pain medication and antibiotics (if any) to manage pain and prevent infection.
Can I speed up the dissolving process?
No, you should never try to manually remove or interfere with the dissolving stitches. Doing so can lead to infection and other complications. Patience is key. Let the stitches dissolve naturally, following your surgeon's instructions.
Remember, this information is for general knowledge and doesn't replace professional advice. Always follow your oral surgeon's instructions carefully and contact them immediately if you have any concerns.
