Are You Supposed To Get Stitches After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. However, not everyone has enough space in their mouth to accommodate these wisdom teeth, resulting in a variety of dental problems. In this article, we will be discussing whether or not you are supposed to get stitches after wisdom teeth removal.
What is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or more wisdom teeth. The procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist. The surgery is done under local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or intravenous sedation. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth, which may require the removal of bone tissue as well. After the tooth is removed, the gum tissue is stitched back together.
Why Do You Need Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why you may need your wisdom teeth removed:
- Impacted wisdom teeth: When a wisdom tooth is unable to emerge properly from the gums, it is considered impacted. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- Crowding: If there isn't enough space in your mouth for your wisdom teeth, they can push against your existing teeth and cause crowding.
- Cavities: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, which can increase your risk of developing cavities.
- Gum disease: Wisdom teeth can also cause gum disease, which can lead to bone loss and tooth loss.
Do You Always Need Stitches After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The answer to this question is not straightforward. Whether or not you need stitches after wisdom teeth removal depends on the complexity of your case. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or require the removal of bone tissue, you will likely need stitches.
However, if your wisdom teeth are fully erupted and easy to access, you may not need stitches. Your dentist or oral surgeon will determine whether or not stitches are necessary based on the specifics of your case.
Types of Stitches Used After Wisdom Teeth Removal
There are two types of stitches that your dentist or oral surgeon may use after wisdom teeth removal:
- Dissolvable stitches: These stitches are made from materials that dissolve over time. They do not need to be removed and will disappear on their own within a few days to a few weeks.
- Non-dissolvable stitches: These stitches are made from materials that do not dissolve. They need to be removed by your dentist or oral surgeon after a few days.
How Long Do Stitches Stay in After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The length of time that stitches stay in after wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the type of stitches used. Dissolvable stitches typically disappear within a few days to a few weeks. Non-dissolvable stitches need to be removed by your dentist or oral surgeon after a few days.
What Happens if Stitches Are Not Used After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
If stitches are not used after wisdom teeth removal, the gum tissue may take longer to heal, and there may be a higher risk of infection. Stitches help to hold the gum tissue together, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of infection.
How to Care for Your Mouth After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After your wisdom teeth removal surgery, it is important to take good care of your mouth to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. Here are some tips:
- Bite down on gauze pads to control bleeding for the first few hours after surgery.
- Avoid rinsing your mouth or brushing your teeth for the first 24 hours after surgery.
- After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with saltwater several times a day to help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least 24 hours after surgery.
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the surgery was performed.
- Take any pain medication as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
- Apply ice packs to your face to help reduce swelling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you need stitches after wisdom teeth removal depends on the complexity of your case. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or require the removal of bone tissue, you will likely need stitches. However, if your wisdom teeth are fully erupted and easy to access, you may not need stitches. Your dentist or oral surgeon will determine whether or not stitches are necessary based on the specifics of your case. Regardless of whether or not you need stitches, it is important to take good care of your mouth after wisdom teeth removal to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.