Gum graft surgery is a dental procedure used to treat gum recession, which can be caused by periodontal disease, genetics, or trauma. The procedure involves grafting tissue from one mouth area onto the receding gum line.

Stitches are typically used after gum graft surgery to keep the graft in place and aid in healing. How long do stitches stay in after a gum graft surgery depends on the type of graft used and the individual patient’s healing time. Dissolvable stitches are commonly used, and they can take anywhere from one to three weeks to dissolve on their own.

Non-dissolvable stitches may be used in some cases and must be removed by a dentist after a week or two. It is critical to carefully follow the dentist’s post-operative instructions, which include brushing and flossing as directed and avoiding hard or chewy foods that may irritate the stitches.

Different Types of Stitches Used in Gum Graft Surgery

Several types of stitches can be used in gum graft surgery in Watsonville, depending on the needs of the patient and the surgeon’s preference. Here are the common types:

1. Dissolvable sutures

They are made of materials that naturally degrade in the body over time. They do not need to be removed and can dissolve in one to three weeks.

2. Non-dissolvable sutures

They are made of materials that do not dissolve in the body and must be removed by a surgeon. They are usually taken out after one to two weeks.

3. Individual Sutures

Individual sutures that are tied off separately are referred to as interrupted sutures. They help ensure that the graft is securely anchored.

4. Continuous Sutures

Continuous sutures are made up of a single thread that is wrapped around the graft and tied at the ends. They are beneficial for larger grafts that require additional support.

5. Horizontal and Vertical Sutures

Horizontal mattress sutures are interrupted suture that runs parallel to the gum line. They are useful for securing the graft and reducing wound tension. Vertical mattress sutures are interrupted sutures that are placed perpendicular to the gum line. They are useful for reducing wound tension and the risk of graft failure.

Aftercare for Gum Graft Surgery

After gum graft surgery, proper aftercare is critical for optimal healing and graft success. Here are some post-operative care recommendations:

• Pain management: It is normal to feel some discomfort and pain following surgery. Your dentist s may prescribe pain medication or pain relievers such as ibuprofen.
• Applying a cold compress to the affected site can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. For the first 48 hours after surgery, apply a cold compress for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily.
• Oral hygiene: After gum graft surgery, it is critical to maintaining good oral hygiene. However, you should avoid brushing or flossing the treated area for at least a week after surgery. To help keep the area clean, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend using a special mouth rinse or an oral irrigator.
• Diet: It is recommended to stick to a soft diet for the first few days after surgery and avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the area. It’s also a good idea to keep hydrated and avoid alcohol and tobacco products.
• Follow-up appointments with your dentist at Watsonville Family Dental are essential for monitoring the healing process and ensuring the success of the graft. They might also take out any non-dissolvable stitches.

When to Expect Stitches to Be Removed

The type of sutures used will determine when the stitches are removed after gum graft surgery.When dissolvable sutures are used, they usually dissolve on their own after one to three weeks. In this case, there is no need to have the stitches removed by a dentist near you or an oral surgeon.

If non-dissolvable sutures are used, the dentist or oral surgeon will usually remove them after one to two weeks. The procedure is usually quick and simple and can be completed during a follow-up appointment.

It is critical to carefully follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions, as they will provide specific guidance on when the stitches should be removed. They will generally advise you on how to care for the stitches and when you should return for a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing process.