What is the recommended duration for a periodontal dressing to remain in place after surgery?

The recommended duration for a periodontal dressing to remain in place after surgery is indeed around 1 week. This timeframe allows for adequate stabilization of the periodontal tissues and optimal healing of the surgical site. A dressing that is in place for this period helps protect the surgical area from trauma and contamination while also providing support to the underlying tissues.

After 1 week, a follow-up appointment usually takes place to assess the healing process, and the dressing can be safely removed. If the dressing is left in place for too long, it can become a site for plaque accumulation and may hinder proper healing or cause irritation. Therefore, 1 week provides a balanced approach to support healing without excessively prolonging the use of the dressing.