When you’ve just had your wisdom teeth removed, it’s normal to feel a bit sore and cautious about your recovery. But what if your wisdom teeth stitches came out after 3 days? Should you worry, or is it completely normal? Let’s dive deep into what’s happening inside your mouth, what’s safe, and when to call your dentist.
Why Stitches Are Used After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After a wisdom tooth extraction, dentists often place stitches also called dental sutures to help your gums heal properly. These stitches hold the tissue together, minimize bleeding, and protect the empty socket where your tooth once was.
There are two main types of stitches used in dental surgeries:
- Dissolvable Stitches:
These are made from special materials like polyglycolic acid or catgut that naturally break down over time. They usually dissolve on their own within 5–14 days. - Non-Dissolvable Stitches:
These need to be manually removed by your dentist, often 7–10 days after surgery.
The type of stitches your dentist used depends on your surgery complexity, healing speed, and individual needs.
Is It Normal if Wisdom Teeth Stitches Came Out After 3 Days?
If your wisdom teeth stitches came out early, don’t panic just yet. It’s not uncommon for dissolvable stitches to start loosening or falling out within a few days especially if your body heals quickly.
However, the key is to evaluate your symptoms. The table below can help you tell if everything’s fine or if you need to see your dentist.
| Situation | Likely Normal | Needs Dentist Check |
| No bleeding, no pain | Normal healing | Not concerning |
| Slight bleeding, mild swelling | Usually normal | Monitor closely |
| Persistent bleeding or bad taste | May indicate infection | Contact dentist |
| Exposed bone or severe pain | Not normal | Urgent care |
If the area looks clean and your pain is manageable, your body is likely healing properly, even if the stitches fell out sooner than expected.
What To Do If Your Wisdom Teeth Stitches Came Out Early
Step-by-Step Immediate Care
If your stitches came out early, follow these simple steps:
- Stay calm – It’s usually not an emergency.
- Avoid touching the site with your tongue, toothbrush, or fingers.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean.
- Avoid straws, spitting, or vigorous rinsing, as these can dislodge the blood clot.
- Apply a cold compress if swelling increases.
- Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, or smoothies.
- Keep your head elevated while sleeping to reduce inflammation.
When to Call Your Dentist
Reach out to your dentist if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding that won’t stop after 24 hours.
- Intense, throbbing pain that radiates to your ear or jaw.
- A foul smell or taste in your mouth.
- White or yellow pus around the extraction site.
- Visible hole or bone exposure.
These signs may point to infection or dry socket, which require professional care.
Dissolvable vs Non-Dissolvable Stitches Explained
Dissolvable Stitches
- Typically dissolve in 5–14 days.
- Made of biodegradable materials that naturally break down.
- Can fall out early if your gums are healing faster than average.
- Usually not a concern unless accompanied by pain, swelling, or bleeding.
Non-Dissolvable Stitches
- Must be removed manually by a dentist.
- If these come out early, your gum may reopen.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment immediately to ensure proper healing.
Tip: Always confirm with your dentist what kind of stitches were used so you know what to expect during recovery.
How to Prevent Wisdom Teeth Stitches From Coming Out Too Soon
Proper aftercare is key to keeping your stitches in place until your gums heal. Here’s what to do:
Do’s
- Follow your dentist’s post-op care instructions carefully.
- Rinse gently with salt water after 24 hours.
- Eat soft, cool foods for the first few days.
- Keep up with hydration and rest.
Don’ts
- Don’t smoke or vape (they delay healing).
- Don’t use straws or spit forcefully.
- Don’t eat crunchy, spicy, or hot foods.
- Don’t poke at your stitches with your tongue.
Potential Complications When Stitches Come Out Early
While most cases are harmless, early stitch loss can occasionally lead to complications:
1. Dry Socket (Alveolar Osteitis)
- Happens when the blood clot dislodges from the socket.
- Symptoms: severe pain, bad smell, exposed bone.
- Occurs in 2–5% of extraction cases.
2. Infection
- Caused by food particles or bacteria entering the open wound.
- Symptoms: fever, pus, swelling, persistent pain.
- Treatable with antibiotics prescribed by your dentist.
3. Delayed Healing
- Early stitch loss may slow tissue repair.
- Maintain good oral hygiene and follow-up with your dentist if healing seems slow.
Recovery Timeline After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Here’s a general guide for what you can expect after your wisdom tooth surgery:
| Day | Healing Stage | What to Expect |
| Day 1–3 | Clot formation | Mild swelling, tenderness |
| Day 4–7 | Initial tissue repair | Less swelling, stitches start softening |
| Day 8–14 | Granulation phase | Stitches dissolve, new tissue forms |
| Day 15+ | Full healing | Gums close and strengthen |
Every person heals differently, depending on age, health, and hygiene habits.
Case Study: Early Stitch Loss With Normal Healing
Case Example:
Sarah, 24, had her wisdom teeth removed and noticed her dissolvable stitches came out on the third day. She felt mild soreness but no bleeding. After consulting her dentist, she learned her gums were healing faster than expected, and her recovery continued without issues.
This example shows that early stitch loss doesn’t always mean trouble, especially if you’re following proper aftercare steps.
Expert Dental Advice
“If your wisdom teeth stitches come out within a few days but you’re not experiencing pain, swelling, or bleeding, you’re probably fine,” says Dr. Emily Shaw, DDS.
“However, if you notice a foul smell or throbbing pain, contact your oral surgeon right away.”
Always trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s better to check in with your dentist early.
When to Visit the Dentist or Oral Surgeon
You should schedule a visit if:
- Pain persists beyond five days.
- The wound looks open or dry.
- Swelling or bleeding worsens.
- You have a fever or bad taste in your mouth.
Your dentist may clean the site, apply medicated dressing, or restitch the wound if necessary.
Long-Term Healing and Care
After your stitches come out, whether naturally or early, keep taking care of your gums:
- Eat a soft diet until the wound feels firm.
- Continue gentle rinsing for a week.
- Avoid hard brushing near the extraction site.
- Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
With consistent care, your gums should fully heal in 3–4 weeks.
Final Thoughts
If your wisdom teeth stitches came out after 3 days, it’s usually not a reason to panic. Many people experience early stitch loss due to normal healing. What matters most is how your wound feels and looks.
Keep the area clean, avoid irritating it, and stay alert for warning signs like pain, bleeding, or infection. When in doubt, your dentist is your best guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can wisdom teeth stitches dissolve in 3 days?
Yes, some dissolvable stitches start breaking down within 3–5 days, especially if your body heals quickly.
Q2: What happens if the stitches fall out and the wound opens?
If you notice an open hole, avoid disturbing it and contact your dentist. The area may still heal on its own if no infection is present.
Q3: How do I know if my wound is infected?
Signs include throbbing pain, pus, swelling, bad taste, or fever.
Q4: Should I eat normally after my stitches fall out?
Stick to soft foods for at least 7 days. Avoid spicy, crunchy, or hot meals until your gums close completely.
Q5: How long does it take for full healing?
Most people recover within 2–4 weeks, depending on oral hygiene and overall health.