Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a significant oral surgery, and a common question following the procedure revolves around the dissolvable stitches. Many patients are curious about how long they'll need to wait for these stitches to fully disappear. The simple answer is: it varies. Several factors influence the dissolution time. Let's delve deeper.
What Type of Stitches Are Used?
Before we explore the timeframe, it's crucial to understand that there are different types of stitches used in oral surgery. There are absorbable stitches (also known as dissolvable sutures) that are designed to break down and be absorbed by the body over time. These are the most commonly used for wisdom teeth removal. Then there are non-absorbable sutures which require removal by a dentist or oral surgeon.
Absorbable stitches are typically made from materials like catgut or synthetic polymers. These materials are gradually broken down by the body's natural enzymatic processes. This means they don't need to be manually removed.
Non-absorbable stitches, on the other hand, are made from materials like silk or nylon. These are stronger and more durable, but they need to be removed by a dental professional after a certain period, usually around 7 to 10 days post-surgery.
Your oral surgeon will have used either absorbable or non-absorbable stitches, and this is crucial information to knowing how long the stitches take to disappear.
How Long Do Dissolvable Wisdom Teeth Stitches Take to Dissolve?
The timeframe for dissolvable wisdom teeth stitches to dissolve typically ranges from 7 to 14 days. However, several factors can influence this:
- Type of suture material: Different absorbable suture materials dissolve at different rates. Some may dissolve more quickly than others.
- Individual healing rate: Everyone heals at a different pace. Some individuals may experience faster tissue regeneration and stitch dissolution than others.
- Location of the stitches: Stitches placed in areas with more blood flow might dissolve faster.
- Infection: An infection can delay the dissolution process.
What if my stitches haven't dissolved after two weeks?
If your dissolvable stitches haven't fully dissolved after two weeks, don't panic. It's best to schedule a follow-up appointment with your oral surgeon or dentist. They can assess the situation, determine if there are any complications, and potentially remove any remaining suture material. Ignoring this could potentially lead to complications.
What to Expect During the Healing Process
Regardless of whether your stitches are dissolvable or not, it's essential to follow your oral surgeon's post-operative instructions meticulously. This typically includes:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene: Gentle rinsing with saltwater can aid in keeping the area clean and reducing the risk of infection.
- Avoiding strenuous activities: This will help prevent bleeding and promote faster healing.
- Following a soft food diet: This prevents irritation and promotes healing.
- Monitoring for signs of infection: Contact your surgeon if you experience increased pain, swelling, fever, or pus.
People Also Ask:
How long does it take for wisdom teeth stitches to dissolve completely?
As mentioned before, the complete dissolution of absorbable stitches takes anywhere from 7 to 14 days, depending on individual factors. However, it can take longer in some cases.
Will I feel the stitches dissolving?
Generally, you won't feel the stitches dissolving. The process is gradual and painless.
Can I speed up the dissolving process?
You can't actively speed up the process, but maintaining good oral hygiene and following your surgeon's instructions will promote optimal healing.
What should I do if I see a part of the stitch hanging out?
If you see a part of the stitch hanging out, it's best to contact your oral surgeon or dentist. They will assess whether it needs to be removed or not. Do not attempt to remove it yourself.
Should I be worried if my stitches are still visible after a week?
Not necessarily. The timeframe for complete dissolution varies. However, if you're concerned, it's best to contact your oral surgeon for peace of mind.
Remember that this information is for general knowledge and shouldn't replace professional advice. Always follow your oral surgeon's instructions and contact them if you have any concerns regarding your healing process. Proper aftercare is vital for a smooth recovery and to ensure the proper healing of the extraction sites.
