Wisdom teeth can cause a whole lot of discomfort for people since they can come in at odd angles or are impacted. When you have them extracted, your dentist will likely give you stitches to help you heal, but will you need to have these removed later on? Thankfully, many offices use dissolvable sutures as they are much more convenient. Here’s more about this aspect of your treatment you should know.
What Are Dissolvable Stitches?
In short, this is a modern advancement in dentistry that allows stitches to break down on their own. They are made from ingredients that can become absorbed over time, such as synthetic polymers or natural materials (like purified catgut). The enzymes in your body dissolve these sutures, so you won’t need to worry about having another visit to get them removed.
How Long Will It Take for My Stitches to Dissolve?
With that being said, it can take about one to two weeks for these types of stitches to fully disintegrate. The exact timeline can vary based on factors like these:
- Material suture is made from.
- How big and where it is.
- The way your body heals.
It can take about a month in some cases, but these stitches aren’t inherently toxic, so they are still safe. You can always call your dentist if you are worried about how long they’ve been in.
What Can I Do to Care for My Wisdom Teeth Stitches?
After your wisdom teeth removal, your dentist will give you detailed instructions you should follow to ensure you keep your stitches safe and recover smoothly. Here are some guidelines you should follow:
- Don’t pick at your sutures, as you can introduce bacteria to the extraction site.
- Keep hard and sticky foods off your plate, as they can irritate. Anything that can leave particles like fruits with tiny seeds should also be avoided.
- Eat a soft food diet as they are gentle on your mouth and won’t disrupt your stitches. Soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are great options.
- Don’t drink from a straw as the suction can cause dry socket or dislodge your sutures.
Follow your provider’s directions to a T, and you can do your part in ensuring you heal smoothly after your procedure. Dissolvable stitches only make the process more convenient for you, but be sure you treat them right. That way, you have an easier experience and a pain-free smile without your wisdom teeth causing trouble.
About the Author
Dr. Deval Parmar earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. She has over 13 years of experience she uses to give the McKinney community the high-quality care they deserve. While an extraction may not sound ideal, Dr. Parmar is here to make it a comfortable procedure with state-of-the-art technology. If you have any questions about this treatment, schedule an appointment or call her office at (972) 972-4646.