Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many people go through in their late teens or early twenties. In many cases, stitches are required after the extraction to help the gums heal properly. However, patients often wonder when it’s the right time for these stitches to come out. In this article, we’ll explore when wisdom teeth stitches should be removed, the healing process, and important care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
What Are Wisdom Teeth Stitches?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth that emerge in the back of the mouth. In many cases, they need to be extracted due to issues like impaction, infection, or misalignment. After the extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon may place stitches (sutures) in the gum tissue to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
There are two types of stitches that may be used in wisdom teeth removal: dissolvable (absorbable) stitches and non-dissolvable (non-absorbable) stitches.
Dissolvable stitches: These stitches naturally dissolve in the body over time, so they do not require removal. The healing process is generally quicker, and the patient doesn’t have to return to the dentist to have them taken out.
Non-dissolvable stitches: These stitches need to be removed manually by the dentist or oral surgeon. These stitches are typically stronger and are used when more substantial suturing is necessary.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Stitches Need to Be Removed?
The primary purpose of wisdom teeth stitches is to close the surgical site, promote tissue healing, and reduce the risk of infection. After the wisdom teeth are extracted, the gums may take time to heal and form a clot to stop bleeding. Stitches help to keep the wound closed during this critical healing phase.
If you had non-dissolvable stitches, it’s important that they are removed at the appropriate time. Leaving them in too long can delay healing or cause irritation. If they are removed too early, the gums may not have fully healed, and reopening the wound could lead to complications, such as infections or further bleeding.
The Healing Process After Wisdom Teeth Removal
The healing process after wisdom teeth extraction can vary from person to person, but there are some general stages that most people experience.
Initial Healing (First 1–3 Days)
Immediately after the procedure, the surgical site will begin to heal. During the first few days, patients should expect swelling, discomfort, and possible bruising around the extraction site. It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s or surgeon’s instructions for pain management and oral care, including avoiding eating hard or crunchy foods and gently rinsing your mouth with saltwater.
Formation of Blood Clots (1–2 Weeks)
After the initial healing, a blood clot will form over the extraction site, which helps protect the wound and promotes tissue regeneration. At this stage, it’s important to avoid disturbing the blood clot by not using straws or smoking, as this can lead to a painful condition known as dry socket.
Gum Healing and Stitch Removal (2–3 Weeks)
The gum tissue will begin to close around the extraction site, and the stitches will no longer be necessary to keep the wound closed. Non-dissolvable stitches typically need to be removed between 7–14 days after the procedure, depending on the surgeon’s assessment of healing progress. Dissolvable stitches, on the other hand, may take anywhere from 1–3 weeks to dissolve naturally, depending on the material used.
Full Recovery (1–2 Months)
It takes approximately 1–2 months for the gums to fully heal after wisdom teeth removal. Although the initial discomfort and swelling will subside after the first few weeks, it’s essential to continue practicing good oral hygiene to prevent infection and further complications.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Stitches Be Removed?
The exact timing for removing stitches after wisdom teeth removal depends on a variety of factors, including the type of stitches used, how well the surgical site is healing, and the complexity of the extraction.
Non-Dissolvable Stitches
For non-dissolvable stitches, your dentist or surgeon will typically recommend removing them between 7–14 days after the extraction.
However, if the area is healing well and there are no signs of infection or complications, your dentist may decide to wait a bit longer.
7–10 Days: This is the most common time frame for removing non-dissolvable stitches. By this point, the gum tissue should have healed enough to hold together without the stitches.
10–14 Days: In some cases, the dentist may wait a bit longer, especially if the extraction site is still healing or if there are multiple extractions that require more time to close.
Dissolvable Stitches
Dissolvable stitches, as the name implies, don’t require manual removal. These stitches are designed to break down on their own over time. The general timeline for dissolving stitches is anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks. However, it’s important to note that the process may vary based on the type of suture material used and the individual’s healing rate.
Some signs that the stitches are dissolving properly include:
The stitches becoming loose or falling out on their own.
Mild irritation or swelling around the stitches.
The absence of any visible sutures after 2–3 weeks.
If you have dissolvable stitches and they remain for more than 3 weeks, or if they are causing irritation, contact your dentist for an assessment.
Factors That Affect Stitch Removal Timing
While the standard timeline for stitch removal is between 7 and 14 days for non-dissolvable stitches, several factors can influence this timing:
1. Complexity of the Extraction
If your wisdom teeth were impacted or involved in a more complicated surgical extraction, it may take longer for the gum tissue to heal. In such cases, your dentist may recommend keeping the stitches in place a little longer to ensure the wound is fully closed.
2. Infection Risk
Infections can delay the healing process and may require longer stitch retention. If you notice signs of infection, such as excessive swelling, redness, or pus, contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and help ensure proper healing.
3. Your Healing Speed
Every person heals at a different rate. Factors such as age, overall health, and whether or not you smoke can affect how quickly your body repairs the wound. Smokers, for example, tend to heal more slowly, which may result in a longer stitch retention period.
4. Presence of Dry Socket
Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the bone. If you experience this condition, it may affect the healing timeline, and your dentist may need to monitor the stitches more closely.
Aftercare Tips for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Proper aftercare plays a crucial role in ensuring that your stitches come out at the right time and that the healing process proceeds smoothly. Here are a few aftercare tips to help you recover quickly and safely:
1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions
Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on what to do (and what not to do) after your procedure. It’s crucial to follow these guidelines to avoid complications. These instructions may include recommendations for pain management, diet, and activity restrictions.
2. Maintain Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is essential to avoid infection. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site for the first few days. After that, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or a prescribed mouthwash to help keep the area free from bacteria.
3. Avoid Smoking and Drinking Through a Straw
Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of developing complications like dry socket. Additionally, using a straw creates suction in your mouth that can disturb the blood clot, so it’s best to avoid straws for at least a week after surgery.
4. Eat Soft Foods
For the first few days, stick to soft, cool foods that won’t irritate the extraction site. Avoid chewing near the surgical area to prevent dislodging the stitches.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth stitches play a critical role in the healing process following extraction. If you have non-dissolvable stitches, they should typically be removed between 7 and 14 days after the procedure, depending on your healing progress.
Dissolvable stitches will dissolve naturally over time, typically within 1–3 weeks.
