Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a significant oral surgery, and a common question patients have is, "When do wisdom teeth stitches come out?" The answer isn't a simple number of days; it depends on several factors. This guide will explore the typical timeline, what to expect during healing, and when to contact your oral surgeon.
How Long Do Wisdom Teeth Stitches Typically Stay In?
Most dissolvable stitches used after wisdom teeth removal will dissolve on their own within 7 to 10 days. However, some surgeons may use non-dissolvable stitches that require removal. If non-dissolvable stitches are used, your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to remove them, typically 7 to 14 days after the procedure.
It's crucial to understand that this is just a general timeframe. The actual time it takes for your stitches to dissolve or be removed depends on several individual factors.
Factors Affecting Stitch Dissolution Time
Several factors can influence how long it takes for your wisdom teeth stitches to dissolve or need removal:
- Type of stitch: As mentioned, dissolvable stitches dissolve naturally, while non-dissolvable stitches require removal by a dentist or oral surgeon.
- Individual healing process: Everyone heals at a different rate. Some individuals heal faster than others, influencing how quickly the stitches dissolve or the healing process progresses.
- Location of the stitches: Stitches placed in areas with more movement or higher blood flow may dissolve slightly faster.
- Infection: An infection can significantly delay the healing process, potentially affecting the stitch dissolution or removal timeline.
What Happens During the Healing Process?
The healing process after wisdom teeth extraction is generally divided into several stages:
- Immediate Post-Op (Days 1-3): Expect some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions meticulously.
- Days 4-7: Swelling and pain should gradually decrease. You may notice the stitches becoming less visible.
- Days 7-14: Most dissolvable stitches will dissolve during this period. Non-dissolvable stitches will be removed by your surgeon during this timeframe.
- Weeks 2-6: Healing continues, with most of the discomfort subsiding. The extraction sites should gradually close.
Important Note: Don't attempt to remove your stitches yourself. This could lead to infection or complications.
What if My Stitches Aren't Dissolving or Are Causing Problems?
If your stitches are causing you significant pain, become infected (signs include increased swelling, redness, pus, or fever), or haven't dissolved after 14 days (for dissolvable stitches), contact your oral surgeon immediately. They will assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
Will I Feel the Stitches Dissolving?
You likely won't feel the stitches dissolving. The process is gradual and painless. However, you may notice that the area where the stitches were located is healing and closing.
Are There Any Post-Operative Instructions I Need to Follow?
Yes, following your oral surgeon's post-operative instructions is critical for a smooth recovery. These typically include:
- Rest: Get plenty of rest in the days following surgery.
- Diet: Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days. Gradually introduce more solid foods as healing progresses.
- Medication: Take any prescribed pain medication as directed.
- Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with saltwater as directed by your surgeon to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Avoid: Smoking, drinking through a straw, vigorous rinsing, and touching the extraction sites.
Following these instructions diligently will help ensure a quick and complication-free recovery.
Remember, this information is for general knowledge only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your oral surgeon or dentist for personalized guidance and treatment. They can provide you with a precise timeline based on your individual situation and the type of stitches used.
