Wisdom tooth extractions are among the most common dental surgeries performed in America. Around 10 million wisdom teeth are remove annually. Once the procedure is done, wisdom tooth extraction stitches are often necessary to close the surgical site. This promotes adequate healing so that you can return to your everyday life.
Proper postoperative care plays an important role in ensuring fast recovery. It also prevents further complications. Today in this article, we will talk about the best care tips and healing advice for managing wisdom teeth removal stitches. Read on to experience a smooth and speedy recovery.
Why are Wisdom Teeth Stitches Important?
Impacted teeth can cause infections, cysts, and damage to nearby teeth. So, they are now routinely remove. You may experience pain, swelling or bad breath when the tooth tries to erupt.
During wisdom teeth surgery, an incision is often made in the gum to access and remove the impact tooth. Once the tooth is remove, wisdom teeth surgery stitches are used to close the incision. This is done to prevent excessive bleeding and to protect the wound. It also helps in faster tissue regeneration.
Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others must be remove by the dentist. Healing of the extraction socket usually takes about 7 to 10 days. Proper care is essential to prevent infection or other complications.
Best Care and Healing Tips for Wisdom Teeth Stitches
Caring for your wisdom tooth extraction stitches is a necessary part of your post-surgery recovery. It ensures your mouth heals quickly and without problems. Here are the top tips to follow for optimal recovery.
Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Wisdom tooth extractions can result in complications due to improper aftercare. To minimize risks, follow the specific instructions provided by your dentist.
This may include using prescribed medications and rinsing with lukewarm salt water. It also includes going to follow-up appointments to remove your stitches.
Do Not Touch the Stitches
Avoid disturbing the stitches in the first few days following surgery. This includes not poking them with your tongue, fingers, or any objects.
Disrupting the stitches increases the risk of infection and may delay healing.
Manage Swelling and Pain
Swelling and discomfort are typical after wisdom teeth removal stitches. Most people report moderate swelling in the first 24 hours. To reduce swelling:
- Apply an ice pack to the affected region for 15 minutes.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, as your dentist directs.
- You can keep your head elevated while resting to reduce swelling.
Eat Soft Foods
Your choice of food can significantly affect healing. Eating soft foods can reduce the risk of dislodging stitches. Stick to soft, non-irritating foods such as:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
Avoid crunchy, spicy, or hot foods that could irritate the surgical site. You should also avoid chewing hard food items.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is critical for tissue healing. Drink plenty of water, but avoid using straws for at least a week to prevent dry socket, a painful condition that can arise from wisdom tooth extraction.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking increases the risk of dry sockets, while alcohol can irritate the wound and delay healing.
It is advised to avoid both for at least a week after your surgery to protect your wisdom teeth surgery stitches and ensure faster recovery.
Rinse with Salt Water
A saltwater rinse is a simple yet effective way to keep the surgical site clean. Start rinsing your mouth gently with lukewarm salt water 24 hours after surgery.
It would be best if you did this, especially after meals, to reduce bacteria and promote healing.
Rest and Take It Easy
For the first 48–72 hours after surgery, limit physical activity. Overexertion can cause excessive bleeding or dislodge stitches.
Patients who rest enough in the first few days post-surgery tend to recover faster than those who do strenuous activities.
Monitor for Signs of Infection
Infections following wisdom teeth removal stitches are rare but can occur in a few cases. Be on the lookout for:
- Persistent or worsening pain
- No reduction in swelling even after a few days
- Pus or discharge from the wound
- Fever
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist on an immediate basis.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene and Attending Follow-up Appointments
Poor oral hygiene can lead to infection in your wisdom tooth extraction stitches. It’s important to maintain impeccable oral hygiene to ensure faster healing.
If your stitches are non-dissolvable, you will need to attend a follow-up appointment for removal. The follow-up appointment is generally given seven days later. Skipping this can lead to complications like infections or delayed healing.
Healing Timeline for Wisdom Teeth Stitches
The healing time for wisdom tooth extraction stitches varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and individual healing factors. Here’s a general timeline:
- First 24-48 hours: Expect some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort. Rest and ice packs are most beneficial during this period.
- Day 3-5: Swelling typically starts to subside, and pain will gradually decrease. Continue following your care routine, especially saltwater rinses.
- Day 7-10: Most stitches will dissolve or be removed, and the wound should be healing well.
- 2 weeks: By this point, healing is mostly complete. Most patients are able to resume normal eating habits and activities, although some tenderness may still be present.
Conclusion
Caring for your wisdom teeth extraction stitches is essential to a fast and smooth recovery. By following the care tips outlined above, you can reduce the risk of complications and ensure proper healing.
Spring Creek Dental can provide comprehensive dental services to you and your family. We have the best general dentists and oral surgeons in town. If you notice any signs of infection or delayed healing, don’t forget to attend your follow-up appointments. Contact us now!
To schedule an appointment, visit springcreekdental.net.
Our address: 422 2nd Street Hudson, WI 54016
Phone: (715) 381-9710
