What does the term “suturing” refer to in periodontal procedures?

The term "suturing" in periodontal procedures specifically refers to the process of stitching the gum tissue back into place after a surgical intervention. This practice is essential in promoting proper healing and ensuring that the mucosal and tissue margins are accurately approximated. Proper suturing helps to reduce the risk of postoperative complications, supports the regeneration of tissue, and provides a mechanism to maintain the desired position of the periodontal flap or the graft material being used.

By utilizing sutures, clinicians can also stabilize the area during the healing process, which is crucial for the success of periodontal surgeries. This technique ensures that the surgical site remains secure and protected, facilitating optimal healing and minimizing the risk of infection.

Other choices refer to different aspects of periodontal surgery: cleansing the surgical site is an important preparatory step, applying topical medication addresses post-surgical care, and tissue removal is a separate procedure done for specific indications, but these do not describe the suturing process itself.