After your wisdom teeth are removed, your oral surgeon will secure the site with stitches. These stitches, also called sutures, will help your mouth to heal and will also help to prevent infections. Taking care of your stitches will put you well on your way to a full recovery. Read on to learn how to care for your wisdom teeth stitches properly.
Different Types of Wisdom Teeth Stitches
There are two main types of sutures, though both serve the same purpose. The first type are just standard stitches, which your oral surgeon will remove about a week after your surgery. Dissolvable stitches are the other option, and also the choice that most oral surgeons prefer. These sutures will disintegrate in the mouth, which means you won’t need them removed at all. It can take several weeks for the stitches to fully dissolve.
Caring For Wisdom Teeth Stitches
After your surgery, it is important to be extra gentle with your surgery site. Carefully rinsing your mouth with salt water or a prescription mouthwash can help to ease discomfort. You should also be careful not to brush directly over your stitches until your oral surgeon says it’s okay. Finally, be careful not to disturb the blood clot that will form beneath the stitches. This is a normal part of the healing process.
Looking Out For Infections
Infections are rare after wisdom tooth extractions, but they can still happen. Your surgeon might prescribe antibiotics to prevent infections, which you should take as directed. Be sure to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you are feeling better halfway through. Use a mirror to look at your surgery site, and call your provider if you notice oozing, swelling, or if your pain gets worse during recovery.
Talk To Your Oral Surgeon
Your dentist and/or oral surgeon will give you specific care instructions before your surgery so that you can have a good recovery. Follow these instructions, and be sure to call your surgeon if you have any questions. Caring for wisdom teeth stitches can be confusing, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
Ready to learn more about wisdom tooth removal? Call Smile 4 Ever Family Dentistry today!