What Is a Suture / Stitch?
A suture, also commonly known as a stitch, is a medical thread used to close wounds and support healing after surgical procedures or injuries. In dentistry, sutures are frequently used to close soft tissue after treatments such as tooth extractions, gum surgeries, or implant placements. Their primary role is to hold tissue together while it heals, reduce bleeding, lower the risk of infection, and guide tissues to heal properly.
In straightforward terms, if a dentist performs a procedure that involves cutting or moving soft tissue—like the gums—they may use sutures to bring the tissues back together. This helps speed up the healing process and ensures the tissue returns to its natural, healthy state.
Types of Sutures Used in Dentistry
Several different types of sutures are used in dental treatments, depending on the procedure, where it takes place in the mouth, and each patient’s individual healing needs. Generally, sutures used in dentistry are divided into two main categories:
- Absorbable sutures: These stitches are designed to dissolve naturally over time in the body, eliminating the need for a return visit to remove them. They are crafted from materials such as polyglycolic acid or catgut (a type of surgical material created from natural fibers). Absorbable stitches are often used when the area is difficult to access after surgery or when it’s important not to disturb healing tissue by removing stitches later.
- Non-absorbable sutures: These do not dissolve and must be manually removed by the dentist after a healing period, usually around 7–14 days post-surgery. They are made from materials like nylon or silk, which are not broken down by the body. This type of suture is typically used when a wound needs longer-lasting support during healing.
In addition to material type, sutures can also vary in techniques and features—for example, some are treated with antibacterial coatings, while others are created to be especially comfortable, depending on the patient’s needs.
When Are Stitches Used in Dentistry?
Stitches are a common part of many dental procedures, particularly when soft tissues are cut or moved. Here are some of the most common situations in which a dentist might use sutures:
- Tooth extractions: Particularly after the removal of wisdom teeth or other surgical extractions, sutures help close the site and protect the forming blood clot, which is important for proper healing.
- Gum (periodontal) surgeries: These procedures might involve reshaping gum tissues or cleaning deep pockets around teeth. Sutures help secure the gum tissue back into place.
- Dental implant placement: After an implant post is placed into the jawbone, the gum tissue is stitched closed to allow for healing.
- Oral biopsies or removal of growths: Small pieces of tissue may be removed for examination, and sutures close the site afterward.
- Soft tissue grafting: Techniques such as gum grafts—which help protect exposed roots or build up gum tissue—require very precise stitches to secure the graft in place.
What to Expect When Getting Stitches at the Dentist
Getting stitches at the dentist is a normal part of oral surgery, and the process is typically quick and comfortable. Here is what most patients can expect:
- Local anesthesia: Before any sutures are placed, local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so the patient won’t feel discomfort while the stitches are being applied.
- Quick placement: Most suturing is done within minutes. The dentist uses sterile tools and precisely places the stitches to promote the best healing outcome.
- Aftercare instructions: Patients receive specific guidelines for caring for their stitches—these may include avoiding certain foods, gently rinsing the mouth with saltwater or an antibiotic rinse, and maintaining soft brushing techniques.
- Follow-up visit: If non-absorbable stitches were used, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to remove them—usually after one to two weeks.
Some minor discomfort, swelling, or tightness at the stitched area is completely normal and usually goes away within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage this.
Healing Timeline and Aftercare Tips
The healing time after receiving dental sutures varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the specific area of the mouth affected. However, most soft tissue surgeries heal significantly within 7 to 10 days. In that time, patients should prioritize recovery by doing the following:
- Maintaining excellent oral hygiene while being gentle around the sutured area.
- Avoiding smoking or using tobacco products, which can slow healing.
- Eating a soft diet and avoiding sharp, crunchy, or very hot foods.
- Not disturbing or playing with the stitches using the tongue or fingers.
Signs of normal healing include decreased tenderness, fading swelling, and the gradual return of tissue color. Patients should contact their dentist immediately if they notice increased pain, prolonged bleeding, swelling, or bad odor from the surgical site, as this may indicate infection or complications.
About ValbyTand – Your Partner in Dental Health
At ValbyTand – located steps from Valby Station – dental care means combining over 75 years of clinical experience with the most advanced technology. Since 1945, we’ve helped thousands of patients in Valby and beyond maintain a healthy smile using the latest techniques in modern dentistry.
We are proud to be the first clinic in Denmark to provide a complimentary 3D dental scan during every new patient’s first visit. This advanced method allows us to create a detailed digital model of your teeth, which helps us plan treatments more precisely and ensures higher-quality care—whether you’re receiving a routine check-up or undergoing minor oral surgery involving sutures.
Our experienced and caring team of dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants are dedicated to making you feel safe and informed at every step of your dental experience. With a strong heritage in the community and a continued commitment to innovation, ValbyTand is your trusted partner for long-term dental health.
