How Long Do Stitches Stay In After Gum Graft Surgery | Get Insight
Gum graft stitches help to hold the grafted tissue in place and provide stability for proper integration with existing gums. Other than that these stitches minimize the bleeding and chances of infection. In return, they want to be your oral guest. Before getting to know about how long stitches stay after gum graft surgery, let’s have a look at what gum graft surgery is.
What is Gum Graft Surgery?
Gum graft surgery is a dental procedure that is designed to treat your thinning to receding gums. Receding is the condition in which gum tissues wear away, exposing the roots of your teeth.
How Long Do Stitches Stay In After Gum Graft Surgery?
The duration for which stitches stay after gum graft surgery depends on the type of stitches used as well as the individual’s healing ability and process. Usually, two types of stitches are being used.
Dissolvable Stitches
In case of dissolvable gum graft stitches which are most common, stitches get dissolved on their own as the gum heals in 1 week to 3 weeks time period. These stitches are used because they eliminate the need for a separate removal process and promote the patient’s comfort.
Non-dissolvable Stitches
When it comes to non-dissolvable stitches, your dental surgeon will remove them in 1-2 weeks. These stitches are rarely used and mostly when a more extended support period is needed.
Like other dental surgeries, gum graft healing also takes some time and the whole process to complete. Make sure to follow the dental surgeon’s instructions and the healing process fastens. Here are the gum grafting healing stages before it fully recovers.
Gum Graft Healing Stages
Stage I (Day 1-7)
Gum graft healing starts from a minute after surgery to day 7. In this period, prescribed medicines help to manage swelling and discomfort. Other than that, soft food, oral hygiene, and following post-operation practices speed up the healing process.
Stage II (Week 1-2)
After one week, tissue adaptation occurs. Due to tissue adaptation, dissolvable gum graft stitches begin to dissolve, and non-dissolvable stitches may be removed. If you see any traces of infection, do a follow-up with your surgeon and continue doing gentle oral care practices.
Stage III (Week 2-6)
In the third stage, it starts consolidation and as a result, the grafted tissues further integrate with the existing gum tissues, and healing is almost done. Still, gentle hygiene practices are required. At that stage, dietary restrictions may ease and you can start eating your normal meals.
Stage IV (Week 7-Long Term)
For continued health and stability of the grafted gums, you need to keep doing oral healthcare every day, make sure to have dental checkups after regular intervals, and be selective and adjustable when it comes to diet.
Gum Graft Healing Time
The initial gum graft healing time is around 1-2 weeks. Full healing time can be assessed after follow-up appointments with your dental surgeon as it varies from person to person. The achievement of optimal gum health may take several weeks to months if cared for properly.
Post-op Care
In gum grafting surgery, post-op care is as important as surgery. If operation aftercare practices are not followed, it can lead to severe infection. Here are a few things you need to do when it comes to gum grafting post-op care.
Follow Instructions
After gum grafting surgery, follow your surgeon’s instructions including diet plans, taking prescribed medication on time, and managing hygiene.
Soft Diet
Stick to a soft diet for at least one week or sometime as advised. For a soft diet, you can take liquids, and cool, or lukewarm food as it will help you to heal fast.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking constricts blood vessels, limiting blood flow to the gums. This stops the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients needed for optimal healing.
Rest and Elevate
You need maximum rest after gum grafting surgery to heal fast. Other than resting, keep your head elevated, particularly when sleeping. It will minimize the swelling.
How Long to Wear Stent After?
The gum graft periodontal stent is worn for 2 days post-gum grafting surgery. It can be removed, cleaned, and reapplied during these 2 days. After 3 days of surgery, you can take it out and wear it only, when needed for comfort. After 5 days, you can completely take the stent off.
FAQs You Might Also Want to Know About
Can I brush my teeth after gum grafting?
