You have just had your wisdom teeth out and you have stitches. The idea of stitches in your mouth might feel strange, but they are actually doing important work right now.

Most wisdom teeth stitches are the kind that dissolve on their own. You do not need to go back to the dentist to have them removed. They typically disappear within a week or two.

Your dentist or oral surgeon put those stitches there for a reason. They help the healing socket stay closed, protect the bone underneath, and reduce the chance of dry socket — a painful condition where the blood clot gets dislodged.

The stitches also help your gums heal in the right direction. They pull the tissue together like tiny guides, so your mouth heals neater and faster.

Do not poke at them with your finger or tongue. I know you are curious, but leave them alone. Let them do their job undisturbed.

Eat soft foods for the first few days. Think mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup — nothing crunchy or chewy. Avoid the area where the stitches are when you chew.

Do not rinse your mouth vigorously for the first 24 hours. After that, gentle saltwater rinses can help keep the area clean. Use cool water, not hot.

Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and spitting forcefully. All of these can pull the blood clot out of the socket and cause dry socket — and that is genuinely painful.

Some swelling and mild discomfort is completely normal. Take your prescribed pain relief or use over-the-counter options as directed.

But call your dentist if you have heavy bleeding that will not stop, increasing pain after day three, fever, or if the stitches are still there after three weeks and have not dissolved. These are signs something might need attention.

Your mouth heals quickly. Follow these simple steps and your stitches will dissolve away before you know it.

Whether you are recovering from extraction or preparing for surgery, we are here to help. Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com

Meads Village Dental Practice