Wisdom teeth extraction can be pretty painful — but once you have been through the ordeal, the oral surgeon will suture the hole and instruct you on proper recovery. Wisdom teeth stitches allow fast and safe healing, preventing you from potential complications. All you need to do is follow the dos and don’ts of wisdom teeth recovery, and your discomfort will diminish soon. Learn the types of wisdom teeth stitches and the ways to care for them in this blog.
Wisdom Teeth Stitches Types
All types of wisdom teeth stitches have one goal: seal the empty tooth socket for better recovery. Generally, either of the two types of the surgical seam is used for wisdom tooth extraction sites: standard stitches and dissolvable stitches.
When an oral surgeon uses standard stitches, they will call you in a week after your surgery to remove them. On the other hand, dissolvable stitches are exactly how they sound; they dissolve in the mouth and do not need removal. Many dentists prefer dissolvable stitches due to their characterizing feature of disintegrating in the mouth. But when do wisdom teeth stitches dissolve? Typically, the surgical seam takes 7 to 10 days to fall out. It may take longer in some instances. In any case, do not try to pull the stitches out by yourself; visit the oral surgeon.
How to Take Care of Your Extraction Site Sutures?
You need to pay extra attention to your extraction site after the surgery, and following the dentist’s instructions allows you to do just that. Using lukewarm saltwater or mouthwash keeps the site bacteria-free. As for oral hygiene, brushing is a big no-no, especially on the first day. Ask your oral surgeon when it is safe for you to brush over the extraction site. You should also avoid any activities that might disturb blood clot formation; the dental specialist will tell you what to limit.
Why Your Wisdom Teeth Stitches are Hanging
A common complaint is that the wisdom teeth stitches are hanging. If that happens, you will need to consult a dentist right away. While it is not a cause for concern, wisdom teeth stitches hanging could mean:
- The wisdom teeth site is infected.
- The socket is bleeding.
- The wound has managed to open.
You should not waste any time in contacting an oral surgeon if the wisdom teeth stitches are hanging or irritating your cheek. One thing you should avoid doing at all costs is cutting, pulling, or removing the seam on your own. Hence, you should wait until your oral surgeon instructs you on what to do. If you pull at the wisdom teeth sutures, it may allow germs in the socket.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Hole Take to Heal?
It takes some time to fully recover after the wisdom tooth has been extracted, but you can continue to eat and gently brush after the stitches dissolve. Generally, it takes 3 to 4 months for the wisdom tooth hole to heal completely. You will need to tend to the extraction site to ensure no issues take place.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth stitches help close the wound, allowing it to recover faster. You should not pull, tug, or remove the stitches if you see them hanging. For any more questions, you can talk to our Vintage Smile Family Dentistry team. Dial (281) 251-7770 to get started on your dental well-being; visit us at 10300 Louetta Rd Ste 132, Houston, TX 77070, United States.