Have you ever wondered what happens to the stitches after wisdom tooth extraction? While most of us are focused on the pain and discomfort associated with this common dental procedure, it’s important not to overlook the role that stitches play in ensuring a smooth and speedy recovery. So, if you’re curious about what goes on behind-the-scenes after your wisdom teeth are removed, keep reading! In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about stitches and how they can help promote healing following oral surgery.

What is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

There are a number of reasons why your dentist may recommend wisdom tooth extraction. Wisdom teeth are the backmost molars in your mouth and usually erupt in your late teens or early twenties. Often, there isn’t enough room in your mouth for them to come in properly, which can lead to a number of problems. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth. They can also be difficult to clean, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.

What Happens to the Stitches After Extraction?

After your wisdom teeth have been extracted, the area where your teeth were removed will be closed with stitches. The type of stitches used will depend on the location and size of the extraction site. Most often, dissolvable stitches are used so that they do not need to be removed. If non-dissolvable stitches were used, your dentist or oral surgeon will remove them in 7-14 days.

It is important to keep the area clean and dry following wisdom tooth extraction. You should brush your teeth carefully around the extraction site and avoid using a straw or spitting for at least 24 hours. These activities could cause the blood clot that forms in the extraction site to become dislodged, which could lead to a painful condition called dry socket.

After your wisdom teeth have been extracted, the area where your teeth were will be covered with stitches. These stitches help to hold the tissue in place and promote healing. The stitches will dissolve on their own over time. In some cases, you may need to have the stitches removed by your dentist.

How Long Does it Take for Stitches to Dissolve?

The stitches used to close the wound after wisdom tooth extraction are usually dissolvable and do not need to be removed. They will slowly dissolve over the course of a week or two and should not cause any discomfort. You may notice the stitches becoming loose before they completely dissolve.

The Importance of Proper Aftercare

After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is important to take proper care of the area to ensure proper healing. This means keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, and not smoking.

It is also important to follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions for care. This may include using a special mouthrinse, taking over-the-counter pain medication, and applying ice packs to the outside of your cheek.

If you have any questions or concerns about your aftercare, be sure to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.

Tips for Caring for Your Stitches

Assuming your wisdom teeth removal went well and there are no complications, the stitches will dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed. You will, however, need to take care of them as follows:

Keep the area clean by brushing your teeth and rinsing with salt water.
Eat soft foods for a few days while the area heals.
Avoid using a straw, smoking, or drinking alcohol as these can cause bleeding.
Apply ice packs to the side of your face for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
Take any pain medication prescribed by your dentist as needed.

Alternatives to Stitches After a Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If your wisdom tooth has been extracted and you have stitches, you may be wondering what the alternatives are to having them removed. There are a few options available to you, and it is important to discuss these with your dentist or oral surgeon before making a decision.

One alternative to stitches after wisdom tooth extraction is to have the area sealed with a dental resin. This resin will help to hold the tissue in place and promote healing. It is important to note that this option is not suitable for everyone, and your dentist will be able to advise you if it is right for you.

Another alternative is to have dissolvable stitches placed. These will eventually dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed. However, they may take longer to dissolve than other types of stitches, so it is important to discuss this option with your dentist beforehand.

Finally, you could also choose to leave the stitches in place. This option is typically only recommended if the extraction site is small and there is minimal risk of infection. Your dentist will be able to advise you on whether or not this is a suitable option for you.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that can be done relatively quickly and without much fuss. After the wisdom teeth have been removed, it is important to take care of any stitches that may have been used during the surgery. This includes following your dentist’s instructions for proper at-home care and making sure you attend your follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing properly. With good aftercare, most postoperative discomfort should subside within a few days and you’ll be able to enjoy life with one less thing to worry about! Book your dental appointment with our Chandler dentist today.