After periodontal surgery, what should be monitored to ensure proper recovery?

Monitoring swelling and inflammation after periodontal surgery is crucial for assessing the healing process. Swelling is a natural response to surgery and can indicate how well the body is coping with the trauma of the procedure. While a certain amount of inflammation is expected, excessive swelling can signal complications or an infection, which may necessitate further intervention.

In addition, chronic or severe swelling could impair recovery by affecting the patient’s comfort, oral hygiene practices, and overall ability to adhere to post-operative care instructions. Therefore, keeping a close eye on the degree of swelling and any signs of abnormal inflammation helps dental practitioners make timely decisions to ensure a proper recovery. Adequate assessment can also help in planning follow-up visits to monitor healing progress effectively.