After many dental procedures, stitches are needed to close the wound and promote healing. In your mouth, your dentist will typically use stitches that dissolve on their own. But how long do mouth stitches take to dissolve, exactly?
There are two main kinds of stitches: absorbable and non-absorbable. The absorbable kind will break down naturally on their own, while the non-absorbable kind need to be removed by a dentist or doctor.
This article will review how long dissolvable stitches usually take to disappear, the factors that can affect this timeline, and how to care for them while they’re working their magic.
What are dissolvable mouth stitches?
Dissolvable stitches, also called absorbable sutures, break down inside your body. Because they dissolve on their own, you don’t have to go back to the doctor to have them removed.
Some common materials used for dissolvable stitches include:
- Plain Gut
- Chromic Gut
- Polyglycolic Acid (PGA)
Oral surgeons use dissolvable stitches to close wounds after tooth extractions, gum surgeries, and other procedures.
Types of Absorbable Stitches and Their Dissolving Times
Not all stitches are created equal. The type of suture material used can affect how long it takes for the stitches to dissolve. Here’s a look at some common absorbable stitches:
- Plain Gut: Made from purified collagen, these dissolve relatively quickly, usually within 5 to 7 days.
- Chromic Gut: These are also made from collagen, but they’re treated with chromic salts to slow down the dissolving process. Expect them to disappear in 10 to 14 days.
- Polyglycolic Acid (PGA): A synthetic suture material that’s absorbed by the body. PGA stitches typically dissolve in 7 to 10 days.
There are other, less common absorbable suture materials, too, and your surgeon or dentist can explain which type they used and how long it should take to dissolve.
What affects dissolving time?
How long your stitches last depends on a few things:
- Suture Material: Some materials dissolve faster than others. Your doctor or dentist will choose the right material for your specific needs.
- Stitch Location: Stitches in areas with a lot of saliva or movement (like your tongue) might dissolve faster.
- Individual Healing: Everyone heals at their own pace. Some people just naturally heal faster or slower.
- Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean helps the healing process. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
How to care for dissolvable stitches
If your dentist or oral surgeon used dissolvable stitches, be sure to follow their instructions carefully.
In general, you’ll want to:
- Follow all post-operative instructions. It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations to avoid infection and speed healing.
- Practice good oral hygiene. Gently brush your teeth and rinse your mouth as directed by your dentist.
- Rinse with salt water. Salt water rinses can help keep the surgical site clean and promote healing.
- Eat soft foods. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes while your mouth heals.
- Avoid irritants. Smoking and alcohol can delay healing and increase the risk of complications, so it’s best to avoid them.
When should you see a doctor?
Keep an eye out for any signs of complications in the days following the procedure.
- Infection: Redness, pus, swelling, pain, and bad odors are all potential indicators of infection. See a dentist immediately if you think you have an infection.
- Delayed healing: If your stitches are still in place after the expected timeframe, it’s always a good idea to get a dentist’s opinion.
- Granulation tissue: This is a normal part of the healing process.
- Other issues: If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if stitches are dissolving in your mouth?
You’ll typically notice several signs as your mouth stitches dissolve. First, the threads will gradually become thinner and may start to fray. You might see small pieces of the suture material coming loose. The area around the stitches may also feel less tight or irritated as the sutures break down. Remember that dissolving times vary, so if you’re concerned, it’s always best to check with your dentist or oral surgeon.
What is the fastest way to heal stitches in your mouth?
To speed up healing after getting stitches in your mouth, practice good oral hygiene. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) after meals to keep the area clean. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and hard or chewy foods that could irritate the stitches. Eat soft, nutritious foods and stay hydrated. Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully, and take any prescribed medications as directed. A healthy diet and proper care will help your mouth heal faster.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to expect from dissolvable stitches and how to care for them is key to a smooth recovery. Your dentist or oral surgeon knows best, so follow their post-operative instructions carefully.
If you have any concerns about your stitches – if they’re not dissolving as expected or if you have any signs of infection – don’t hesitate to contact your dental professional. They can help you get back on track to healing quickly.