Your dentist may suggest a tooth extraction for various reasons. You may require one because of tooth decay, painful wisdom teeth, or a preparation for an orthodontic treatment. Regardless of the reason you need you to undergo tooth extraction, you should know that aftercare is just as important as the procedure itself. Just because your Lakewood or Denver area dentist suggests a tooth extraction, it is not the end of the world. Remember, there are many procedures to replace teeth such as dental implants.
One of the most common questions patients ask us is “will I need stitches or sutures after a tooth extraction or getting my tooth pulled?” Most stitches or sutures are dissolvable and fall out on their own within a week after surgery. However, some types may take two weeks or more to dissolve. Your dentist will inform you of what you can expect. Most likely, you won’t have to return to have them removed. Dr. Levitin of Mile High Smiles in Lakewood is very experienced when it comes to both tooth extractions and the aftercare. You can be rest assured he will do what is best for your oral health.
Both stitches and sutures are intended for the same purpose: to help control bleeding and clot formation. They are also designed to help prevent dry socket. Dry socket is a condition that may occur if the blood clot that typically fills the socket is lost. Since it involves the underlying bone and nerve endings being exposed, it often leads to intense pain. We do our best to help each and every dental patient avoid dry socket. In fact, we go above and beyond by urging any of our patients that think dry socket is occurring to immediately contact our office. We do not want any dental emergencies arising in the near future.
If you happen to lose a stitch earlier than expected, don’t worry. This occurs sometimes and is usually not an issue. We do encourage you to contact the dentist if you experience any type of bleeding or pain. Please try to refrain from using your tongue to “play” with or “feel” your stitches. It will be enticing to do this for anyone that has a nervous tic but remember this will likely cause the stitch or stitches to come out prematurely.
Contact Mile High Smiles
If you have a further question related to stitches or sutures after a tooth extraction in the Lakewood or Denver, Colorado area, we encourage you to reach out to our office today. Call us at (303) 232-1830.
