Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Why Is There a Hole After Stitches?

Wisdom tooth extraction with sutures?

Hello Dr.
Zhu, I had my wisdom teeth removed last week and I have stitches.
I would like to ask, wasn't the gum already sutured after the extraction? Why do I still see a hole in the wound after the stitches were removed? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/28

Dr. Zhu Guanyu reply Dentistry

Dear Madam,
The purpose of suturing is typically to assist in the initial healing of the soft tissue in the gingiva after an incision.
For the opening to close, bone growth is necessary, which takes at least 6 to 8 weeks, and the amount of bone growth can vary from person to person.
If you have recently noticed that food often gets stuck in the opening, you can rinse it out with mouthwash.
If this issue continues to trouble you, or if you still feel discomfort after 1 to 2 months, I recommend visiting a dental clinic for an examination.
Thank you for your message.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Kuan-Yu Chu
Director of Dentistry
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2017/06/28

More Info

After having a wisdom tooth extracted, it is common to notice a hole or indentation in the gum where the tooth used to be, even after the stitches have been removed. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process and the nature of dental extractions.

When a wisdom tooth is removed, the extraction site is not just a simple hole; it involves the removal of the tooth along with some surrounding bone and gum tissue. The primary purpose of suturing the gum tissue is to facilitate the initial healing process by bringing the edges of the gum together. However, the underlying bone where the tooth was located needs time to heal and regenerate. This process can take several weeks to months, depending on various factors such as the complexity of the extraction, the individual's healing capacity, and overall oral health.

The "hole" you see after the stitches are removed is essentially the socket where the tooth was extracted. Initially, this socket will be quite deep, and as healing progresses, the body will gradually fill in this space with new bone and gum tissue. The healing of the bone can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, and in some cases, even longer. During this time, it is normal for the socket to appear as a depression or hole.

If you are experiencing discomfort or if food particles are getting trapped in the socket, it is advisable to rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help keep the area clean. Avoid using a toothbrush directly on the extraction site until the gum tissue has healed sufficiently, which can take a few weeks. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or discharge, it is important to consult your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation.

In summary, the presence of a hole after wisdom tooth extraction is a normal part of the healing process. It reflects the body’s natural response to healing and regeneration. If you have concerns about the healing process or if you experience persistent discomfort, it is always best to seek professional advice from your dentist or oral surgeon. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected.

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