How to tell if stitches tore open after a dental procedure?

Look inside mouth: Many times stitches will come out by themselves as healing occurs. But if you are still having pain, swelling, bleeding or discharge then call you dentist or oral surgeon about this. Typically stitches should remain about 10-14 days.

Look in mouth: You may need someone else to look for you. If the two sides of the extraction site or gingival graft are still touching the stiches are probably still in place. If the extraction site is gapping open or the graft is flapping around or the area has considerable bleeding, they are probably gone. If your not sure go back to the dentist and have them check.

Look: If the surgical site was completely closed with sutures and you now see an opening or separation of the previously sutured tissue, you may have lost a suture. Whether or not you need another suture may depend on what type of surgery was performed, the surgical site, as well as how much time has elapsed since your surgery. Your surgeon would advise you if anything needs to be done.