What type of brushing technique is recommended after periodontal surgery?

After periodontal surgery, a gentle approach to oral hygiene is critical for promoting healing and preventing complications. Light strokes over sutures and dressings are recommended because they minimize trauma to the delicate tissues that have been surgically treated.

Using heavy scrubbing techniques can disrupt the surgical site, potentially causing damage to the sutures or the healing gingiva, leading to further complications or setbacks in recovery. Avoiding brushing altogether for two weeks would not support the maintenance of oral hygiene, which is essential in preventing plaque accumulation and subsequent infection. Limiting brushing to just the front teeth does not ensure comprehensive oral care, as bacteria can still accumulate in other areas of the mouth, compromising overall health and healing. Thus, the gentle brushing technique is the most effective method to balance cleanliness and care for the surgical site during recovery.