“How long will I have stitches after dental implants?”
I will have implant surgery. How long will I have stitches after dental implants?
3 Answers
DentalHygienistDentist
After dental implant surgery, stitches are typically in place for about 7 to 10 days, depending on the complexity of the surgery and how quickly your gums heal. At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, uses either dissolvable (resorbable) or non-dissolvable (non-resorbable) stitches based on your specific needs, and he will provide detailed guidance on their care and removal.
Types of Stitches Used in Dental Implant Surgery
1. Dissolvable Stitches
Dissolvable stitches are designed to break down and be absorbed by your body over time, usually within 1-2 weeks. These stitches don’t need to be removed, making them a convenient option for many patients. The exact time they take to dissolve can vary, but they generally don’t require special attention beyond standard post-operative care.
2. Non-Dissolvable Stitches
Non-dissolvable stitches are commonly used when the surgeon wants more control over the healing process. If these are used, Dr. Egan will schedule a follow-up appointment within about 7-10 days after surgery to remove them. Removal is typically quick and painless.
Factors Affecting the Duration of Stitches
• Extent of Surgery: More complex implant surgeries, such as those involving multiple implants or bone grafting, may require stitches to remain in place for slightly longer.
• Healing Rate: Individual healing rates vary, and Dr. Egan will assess your progress to determine the appropriate time for stitch removal or monitoring.
• Type of Implant Procedure: Some advanced implant procedures, like All-on-4, may require stitches in multiple areas, potentially extending the time they remain in place.
Caring for Stitches After Implant Surgery
1. Gentle Oral Hygiene
Continue brushing and flossing your other teeth, but be careful around the surgical area. Avoid disturbing the stitches and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Rinse with Salt Water
Rinsing with a warm salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) several times a day helps keep the area clean and reduces inflammation. Avoid vigorous rinsing, which could disturb the stitches.
3. Avoid Chewing Directly on the Implant Site
Stick to a soft food diet initially to prevent placing pressure on the stitches and the healing implant site.
4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Both smoking and alcohol can slow healing and increase the risk of infection, so it’s best to avoid them until you’re fully healed.
Dr. Egan will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and let you know if a follow-up appointment is needed to check on the stitches. If you experience any unusual discomfort, swelling, or signs of infection around the stitches, contact Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma for prompt care.
By following Dr. Egan’s guidance and maintaining proper oral hygiene, your stitches should support a smooth and successful healing process after your implant surgery.
Types of Stitches Used in Dental Implant Surgery
1. Dissolvable Stitches
Dissolvable stitches are designed to break down and be absorbed by your body over time, usually within 1-2 weeks. These stitches don’t need to be removed, making them a convenient option for many patients. The exact time they take to dissolve can vary, but they generally don’t require special attention beyond standard post-operative care.
2. Non-Dissolvable Stitches
Non-dissolvable stitches are commonly used when the surgeon wants more control over the healing process. If these are used, Dr. Egan will schedule a follow-up appointment within about 7-10 days after surgery to remove them. Removal is typically quick and painless.
Factors Affecting the Duration of Stitches
• Extent of Surgery: More complex implant surgeries, such as those involving multiple implants or bone grafting, may require stitches to remain in place for slightly longer.
• Healing Rate: Individual healing rates vary, and Dr. Egan will assess your progress to determine the appropriate time for stitch removal or monitoring.
• Type of Implant Procedure: Some advanced implant procedures, like All-on-4, may require stitches in multiple areas, potentially extending the time they remain in place.
Caring for Stitches After Implant Surgery
1. Gentle Oral Hygiene
Continue brushing and flossing your other teeth, but be careful around the surgical area. Avoid disturbing the stitches and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Rinse with Salt Water
Rinsing with a warm salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) several times a day helps keep the area clean and reduces inflammation. Avoid vigorous rinsing, which could disturb the stitches.
3. Avoid Chewing Directly on the Implant Site
Stick to a soft food diet initially to prevent placing pressure on the stitches and the healing implant site.
4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Both smoking and alcohol can slow healing and increase the risk of infection, so it’s best to avoid them until you’re fully healed.
Dr. Egan will provide you with specific post-operative instructions and let you know if a follow-up appointment is needed to check on the stitches. If you experience any unusual discomfort, swelling, or signs of infection around the stitches, contact Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma for prompt care.
By following Dr. Egan’s guidance and maintaining proper oral hygiene, your stitches should support a smooth and successful healing process after your implant surgery.
Every patient has a slightly different experience with their stitches, depending on their healing abilities and the type of stitches we use, but usually, this process takes one to two weeks. Some patients may find their stitches come out even earlier; as long as there is no pain or bleeding, this should be fine.
Ten days to two weeks
