Wisdom teeth are the last set that grows in the latter part of life (late teens or adulthood) with the least space because of other teeth. Due to less room, they often remain impacted, grow crooked or suffer from infection, which leads to their extraction. Usually, it is a simple process; however, in case of deep-rooted impaction or multiple teeth, stitches may be required after wisdom teeth extraction to close the hole.
Do Stitches in Gums Hurt After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
We understand that the thought of stitches or sutures in the mouth can be daunting, but know that getting stitches after wisdom teeth removal is not a painful process; they do not hurt, thanks to local sedation.
What Do Wisdom Teeth Stitches Look Like?
They do not look any different from regular sutures; their appearance is small and threadlike, which binds the soft oral tissues due to cut in gums together.
Do Wisdom Teeth Stitches Fall Out?
Usually, dentists use dissolvable stitches after wisdom teeth extraction. As soon as the healing process starts, you can expect it to dissolve inside the mouth. Or, if these stitches after wisdom teeth removal are half hanging, expect them to fall out soon. It takes them from a few weeks to months to come out of the mouth.
However, it is essential to note that these sutures should remain in place for at least 15 days so that the gums get time to heal from the cut made by the dentist. After this, the stitches start disintegrating; the time it will take is dependent on a few factors:
- Material used
- Size of the suture
- The severity of wisdom teeth removal
Relationship between Dry Socket and Wisdom Teeth Extraction
A dry socket is a severe complication after getting wisdom teeth extracted. Almost 1 in 10 patients have to suffer this awful pain. Therefore, we urge you to take strict aftercare cautions to prevent this from happening.
Some causes that result in dry socket formation:
- The hole left behind after wisdom tooth extraction.
- Oral cavity infections
- Inadequate blood scab formation
- Dislodging of blood scab
Major Symptom of Dry Socket after Wisdom Teeth Extraction
If your mouth has throbbing pain that does not get better, it is a marker for dry sockets. Therefore, prevent it from happening by not smoking, using straws for drinking, or general sucking action.
Aftercare Instructions
Post-op care is of prime importance to avoid dry sockets and infection after wisdom teeth extraction. Your dentist will provide details on how to care for your mouth, especially the site where blood clots will emerge, and ways to keep the stitches free from infection.
- The first day or 24 hours after the extraction process, gently rinse your oral cavity with a saltwater solution. Make sure not to gargle, as there is a chance of blood clot displacement. Simply open your mouth and drip the water out.
- Antibacterial mouthwashes, like those with chlorhexidine solution, reduce the chances of an oral infection.
- Always complete the entire course of medicines to eliminate the risk of infection, inflammation, and pain.
- Steer clear of brushing or flossing on the surgery site in the first few days after removal.
Final Words
We hope that this blog answered most of the questions on your mind about wisdom teeth stitches. Still, in case you are looking for answers, talk to us. Get in touch with the best dentist near San Jose from AT dental Clinic for a proper consultation and treatment.