If you or your teen is getting ready for wisdom tooth surgery, or you’ve just had it done, you might be wondering what your recovery is going to look like—and more specifically, what you’ll need to do about the stitches your dentist will leave inside your mouth to close up the extraction site. Will they dissolve naturally, or will you need to come back and have them removed? The answer depends, but in either case, there isn’t much you need to worry about managing; here’s what you need to know.
Why Are Stitches Needed After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
When a wisdom tooth is impacted or only partially erupted, your dentist or oral surgeon often needs to make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. Once the tooth has been removed, stitches (also sometimes referred to as sutures) are used to close the incision. This helps the gum tissue heal properly, minimizes bleeding, protects the extraction site from food particles and bacteria, and reduces your risk of developing complications like dry socket.
That said, not every wisdom tooth extraction requires stitches, and it largely depends on whether the tooth was impacted and how large the incision needed to be. You’ll be informed ahead of time whether sutures are part of your treatment plan, and if they are, which type you’ll receive. There are two main types of stitches used in oral surgery:
- Dissolvable stitches are made from a material that naturally breaks down over time as your body heals. They typically dissolve on their own within one to two weeks.
- Non-dissolvable stitches are made from a stronger material that doesn’t break down on its own. These need to be removed by your oral surgeon, usually about one to two weeks after your procedure.
What Else Can I Expect While I Heal?
In the days following your surgery, it’s normal to notice some minor irritation or a slightly rough texture where your stitches are located. To support proper healing and minimal discomfort, be gentle when brushing near the surgical site, avoid rinsing too vigorously, and steer clear of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could disrupt the area. Rinsing with warm salt water can also help keep the area clean while your stitches dissolve or heal in preparation for removal.
While some irritation is normal, be on the lookout for concerning symptoms such as:
- Stitches that come loose or fall out earlier than expected
- Increasing pain, swelling, or bleeding after the first few days
- Signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or a foul taste in your mouth
- Stitches that haven’t dissolved or been removed after several weeks
The bottom line is, whether your stitches dissolve on their own or need to be professionally removed, proper aftercare is key to a smooth recovery from wisdom tooth extraction!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Harry Golnazarian, our team has served the needs of patients and families in Lowell, Fitchburg, Worcester, and the nearby communities. We offer a wide range of services, including surgical treatments such as wisdom tooth extractions. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can call or reach out online for more information or to find the office nearest to you. Telephone: (774) 220-7355.
