If you’ve recently had your wisdom teeth removed, or you’re preparing for surgery, you may be wondering what happens after the procedure—specifically, how your dentist will close up your mouth! It’s common for the area where a wisdom tooth was removed to be closed with sutures. But do these stitches dissolve on their own, or will you have to return in the near future to have them removed? Here’s what you can expect.
Why Are Stitches Needed After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
After a wisdom tooth is removed, especially if it was impacted or required surgical extraction, stitches are often placed for a few different reasons. They help control bleeding and swelling, bring the gum tissue back together, and protect the blood clot that forms over the site to assist with the body’s healing process. Sutures help to stabilize the area during those first few days of healing, which are the most critical.
Will These Stitches Dissolve on Their Own?
In most cases, dentists use dissolvable sutures after wisdom tooth surgery. These stitches are designed to gradually break down on their own as your body heals, usually within a few days or one to two weeks. You normally won’t need to come back to have these removed, though you may notice small materials in your mouth as they dissolve. Rest assured, using these sutures is completely safe and painless! Sometimes, non-dissolvable stitches are used, and in these cases, your dentist or oral surgeon will schedule a quick follow-up with you (usually a week or so after the surgery) to remove them.
It’s not unheard of for a stitch to loosen or fall out on its own sooner than expected, though it usually isn’t a cause for concern. However, if you experience increased pain, persistent bleeding or swelling, or signs of infection, let your dentist know at once so they can evaluate the area and ensure proper healing continues.
Once your stiches have dissolved or been removed, your body will continue to heal—the underlying bone continues to remodel itself for several months. That said, be sure to keep up with your oral hygiene, follow other post-op instructions, and trust in your dentist!
About the Practice
Under the talented leadership of Dr. Steve Yusupov and Dr. Gregory Yunov, our team here at Gold Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery has served the needs of patients in Roslyn and the nearby area for several years. We offer a wide range of services, from tooth replacements like dental implants to safe and gentle wisdom tooth extractions. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment with us, please call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (516) 744-6262.