Is 12 Days Too Late to Remove Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Concerns Regarding Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Hello doctor, I had my horizontal wisdom tooth extracted and I'm scheduled to have my stitches removed 12 days later.
Is that too late? My doctor was on leave, which is why it was delayed to 12 days.
Should this be a concern?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/30

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

It is normal to have the stitches removed 1-2 weeks after the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth.
It is important to keep the wound clean to prevent inflammation.

Reply Date: 2018/07/30

More Info

It is generally recommended to remove stitches (sutures) after wisdom tooth extraction within 7 to 10 days, depending on the type of sutures used and the healing progress of the extraction site. However, waiting 12 days to remove stitches is not uncommon and, in many cases, should not pose significant issues.
When stitches are left in place longer than recommended, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, the risk of infection may increase if the sutures are not removed in a timely manner, as they can harbor bacteria. However, if the extraction site appears to be healing well, without signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, then the delay in removing stitches may not be a cause for concern.

Another factor is the type of sutures used. Dissolvable sutures typically break down on their own within a week or two, so if your dentist used this type, they may have already started to dissolve by the time you reach the 12-day mark. Non-dissolvable sutures, on the other hand, need to be removed manually, and leaving them in too long can lead to complications such as irritation or inflammation of the surrounding tissue.

In your case, since the delay in removing the stitches was due to your dentist's unavailability, it is advisable to visit another dental professional if you have any concerns about the healing process or if you notice any unusual symptoms. They can assess the extraction site and determine if the stitches can be safely removed or if further intervention is needed.

In summary, while 12 days is slightly longer than the typical timeframe for stitch removal, it is not necessarily too late. The key is to monitor the healing process and consult with a dental professional if you have any concerns. Regular follow-up appointments after wisdom tooth extraction are crucial to ensure proper healing and to address any complications that may arise.
In addition, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene during the healing process. Gentle brushing around the extraction site and using an alcohol-free mouthwash can help prevent infection. If you experience any pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.
Overall, while the timing of stitch removal is important, the condition of the healing site is the most critical factor in determining whether any complications have arisen.

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