Are My Wisdom Teeth Stitches Supposed To Come Out
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow at the back of your mouth. They usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties and can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Why Do You Need Stitches After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
When you have your wisdom teeth removed, the dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in your gum to extract the tooth. After the tooth is removed, the dentist or oral surgeon will use stitches to close the incision and promote healing.
How Long Do Stitches Take To Dissolve?
Stitches that are used after wisdom teeth removal are usually dissolvable, which means they will dissolve on their own in about 7-10 days. If your stitches are not dissolvable, your dentist or oral surgeon will remove them during a follow-up appointment, usually within a week of the procedure.
What Happens If My Stitches Don't Come Out?
If your stitches don't come out on their own or if they are not dissolvable, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon. Leaving stitches in for too long can cause infection, pain, and swelling. Your dentist or oral surgeon will remove the stitches to prevent these complications.
Can You Eat After Wisdom Teeth Stitches?
You should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least an hour after your wisdom teeth removal surgery. After that, you can start with soft foods like soup or pudding. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for at least a week after the procedure to prevent irritation of the incision site.
How Can You Care For Wisdom Teeth Stitches?
To care for your wisdom teeth stitches, you should:
- Keep your mouth clean by rinsing with warm salt water
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco
- Avoid drinking through a straw
- Avoid spitting or rinsing your mouth vigorously
- Avoid touching the incision site with your fingers or tongue
Following these guidelines will help promote healing and prevent infection.
When Should You Call Your Dentist?
You should call your dentist or oral surgeon immediately if you experience:
- Bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure for 20-30 minutes
- Swelling that gets worse instead of better
- Fever or chills
- Pus or discharge from the incision site
- Severe pain that doesn't go away with pain medication
These symptoms could indicate an infection or other complication that requires immediate attention.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. Stitches are used to promote healing and prevent infection. If your stitches are not dissolvable, your dentist or oral surgeon will remove them during a follow-up appointment. It's important to care for your stitches by keeping your mouth clean and avoiding certain foods and activities. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience any complications after the procedure.
