Dissolvable stitches placed after wisdom teeth removal usually break down on their own within one to two weeks, though some types can take three to four weeks to disappear completely. Not every extraction needs stitches. A simple wisdom tooth that comes out in one piece often needs none, while a surgical removal, where the gum is opened or the tooth is sectioned, usually does. Knowing what your stitches are for and how to look after them helps healing go smoothly.
Key takeaways
- Stitches are used mainly after surgical removals, not every extraction.
- Dissolvable sutures typically break down within one to two weeks.
- Non-dissolvable stitches are removed at a short follow-up, usually after seven to ten days.
- A stitch coming loose early is common and not usually a problem once the wound has started to heal.
- Increasing pain, swelling or bad taste can signal a problem and is worth a call to your dentist.
Why stitches are used after wisdom teeth removal
Stitches, also called sutures, hold the gum together over the socket so it can heal and to reduce bleeding. They are most often needed when the tooth is impacted or removed surgically, because the dentist may need to lift the gum or remove a little bone to reach the tooth. After a straightforward extraction the socket is often left to heal without stitches. Whether you have them depends on how your tooth came out, which your dentist will explain on the day. For the wider recovery picture, see our wisdom teeth recovery timeline.
Dissolvable versus non-dissolvable stitches
Most dentists use dissolvable sutures for wisdom teeth because they save you a second appointment. They are made from material the body slowly breaks down, so they loosen and fall away as the gum heals. Non-dissolvable stitches are sometimes chosen for a firmer, longer-lasting hold and are removed by your dentist at a quick review. Your dentist will tell you which type you have and roughly when to expect them to go.
| Type | What happens | Typical timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Dissolvable | Break down and fall out on their own | 1 to 2 weeks, some up to 3 to 4 |
| Non-dissolvable | Removed by the dentist at a review | Around 7 to 10 days |
How to look after your stitches
For the first 24 hours, leave the area alone. Do not rinse hard, spit forcefully or poke the stitches with your tongue or fingers, because this can dislodge the healing blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket. After the first day, gentle warm salt-water rinses a few times daily help keep the area clean. Brush your other teeth as normal but keep the brush away from the wound at first. Eat soft food, chew on the other side, and avoid straws, smoking and alcohol while you heal. If bleeding restarts, our guide on how to stop bleeding after an extraction walks through what to do.
Is it normal for a stitch to come out early?
Often, yes. A dissolvable stitch that loosens or comes away after a few days is usually nothing to worry about, as long as the gum underneath has begun to close and there is no fresh heavy bleeding. Try not to disturb the area if you notice a loose thread. If a stitch comes out on the first day, or the wound reopens and bleeds, contact your dentist for advice rather than trying to fix it yourself.
When to call your dentist
Some discomfort and swelling in the first few days is expected and eases steadily. Get in touch with your dentist if pain gets worse rather than better after day three, if you notice throbbing that spreads to the ear, a bad taste or smell, pus, a fever, or swelling that keeps growing. These can point to a dry socket or an infection, both of which are treatable but need attention. Trust your instincts. It is always reasonable to ring and ask.
Frequently asked questions
How long do dissolvable wisdom teeth stitches take to dissolve?
Most dissolve within one to two weeks, though some materials take three to four weeks. The exact time depends on the suture type and how your body breaks it down.
Do all wisdom teeth removals need stitches?
No. Simple extractions often need none. Stitches are mainly used after surgical or impacted removals where the gum has been opened.
What should I do if a stitch falls out early?
If the wound has started to heal and there is no heavy bleeding, a loose or early stitch is usually fine. Leave the area alone and contact your dentist if you are unsure or if bleeding returns.
Can I brush near the stitches?
Keep the brush away from the wound for the first day or two, then clean gently around it. Warm salt-water rinses after 24 hours help keep the area clean without scrubbing.
When are non-dissolvable stitches removed?
Usually around seven to ten days after surgery at a short follow-up visit. Removal is quick and generally painless.
The bottom line
Stitches after wisdom teeth removal are there to help the gum heal, and dissolvable ones usually disappear within one to two weeks. Gentle care in the first days, salt-water rinses, soft food and no poking, gives the socket the best chance to close cleanly. If pain or swelling climbs instead of settling, reach out to your dentist. The team at Lumi Dental can talk you through wisdom teeth care and recovery. See our current offers or book with a general dentist in Melrose Park. This article is general information and not a substitute for personal dental advice.
