If you are planning for a wisdom teeth removal surgery, know that there might be involvement of stitches just like any other surgery. But why do we need to extract wisdom teeth anyway? These are typically the last ones to join in, therefore having the least space. This causes the tooth to grow impacted, causing infections and other complications.
Extracting an impacted tooth is difficult; it may be deep inside the jaw bone, which requires several incisions at times, so we require stitches. Recent advancements make it easier to choose from different types of sutures according to the patient or procedure needs.
Is Dry Socket Formation Possible With Stitches?
Yes, dry socket formation after wisdom teeth extraction is a possibility, even if you have gotten proper stitches. Mostly, this condition appears in 1 of 10 extractions. A dry socket at the site of wisdom tooth extraction is painful; its growth further delays healing time to a great extent.
Multiple reasons are associated with the formation of a dry socket; read some of them below
- Wisdom teeth stitches falling out, forming a hole
- Infection
- Smoking after wisdom teeth extraction
- Inappropriate or absence of clot formation
Sharp stinging pain after getting a wisdom tooth extraction indicates dry socket formation. Therefore, for prevention, you should follow after-care protocols with diligence. Do not smoke, or use straws for drinking, etc.
Although you may have pain after wisdom teeth removal because of stitches themselves, your mouth may remain sore for the coming days, so keep a check on what is happening inside your oral cavity.
After Care Tips
The first following day or 24 hours are crucial; you must be very careful; once you pass the threshold, take a saltwater mixture and rinse your mouth with it very gently. Do not gargle or swish; swirl and spit. Your dentist may prescribe an antibacterial rinse as well to decrease the infection chances in the stitches.
You must not use floss or a toothbrush for at least 4 to 5 days on the extraction site. Make sure to follow the protocols your dentist provides you with for avoiding blood scab dislocation, infection, or a dry socket formation.
Can Wisdom Teeth Stitches Develop An Infection?
Wisdom teeth stitches do commonly get infected, and its treatment is vital for avoiding further complications. Seek your dentists’ help immediately; here are some vital signs of infected stitches to look out for:
- Inflammation and consequent pain
- Pus formation
- Redness
- Bloody discharge from the nasal passage
- Bad metal like taste in the mouth
- Itching in the wisdom tooth hole
How Long Is Healing Time After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Usually, a normal empty socket takes about 3 to 4 months to heal. After the dissolution of the stitches, you can get back to brushing and floss, even around that area but make sure you do not put pressure on it.
Final Take Out
After observation, call your dentist immediately if you feel that the wisdom teeth stitches are starting an infection or if the scab is improper. Or, reach out to us at Porter Smiles Dental for treatment by an affordable dentist in Porter; we are here for you. Call 281 519 7200 for an appointment today!