Yes, it is generally okay if you swallow dissolving suture knots that come loose in your mouth.
Here's a breakdown:
- Dissolving Stitches: The types of stitches used inside your mouth are designed to dissolve over time.
- Knots and Dissolving: The suture material dissolves under the skin. However, the knots you might feel with your tongue usually don't dissolve completely. These are designed to eventually fall off.
- Swallowing is Safe (Usually): According to the provided reference, swallowing these loose knots is generally not a cause for concern. They are typically small and made of biocompatible material.
Important Considerations:
- Material: Dissolvable sutures are made from materials like gut (derived from animals) or synthetic polymers that are designed to be broken down by the body.
- Size: The knots that come loose are typically quite small, making them easy to swallow without causing choking or digestive problems.
- Quantity: While swallowing a few suture knots is usually fine, consistently eating many stitches might be worth discussing with your doctor or dentist.
When to be Concerned:
- Unusual Symptoms: If you experience any pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea, or other unusual symptoms after swallowing a stitch, contact your healthcare provider.
- Non-Dissolving Stitches: If you are certain that the stitches are the type that are supposed to be removed by a doctor (non-dissolving), do not attempt to remove or swallow them. Seek professional removal.
In summary, swallowing a dissolving suture knot that comes loose is typically harmless. However, if you have any concerns, consult your doctor or dentist.
