Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

Which type of healing occurs after a surgical flap?

1. Primary intention healing

2. Secondary intention healing

3. Long junctional epithelium healing

4. Granulation tissue healing

The correct answer is: Long junctional epithelium healing

The healing that occurs after a surgical flap is best described as long junctional epithelium healing. This type of healing refers to the formation of a junctional epithelium following periodontal surgical procedures, such as flap surgery. This process is important in periodontal healing because it allows for the re-establishment of the epithelial attachment to the tooth surface, which is critical for proper function and stability of the periodontal environment. In contrast to long junctional epithelium healing, primary intention healing typically occurs when wound edges are brought together, such as in direct suturing. Secondary intention healing involves a broader, more open wound that heals from the bottom up, which is not the situation following a surgical flap where controlled apposition of tissues is practiced. Granulation tissue healing refers to the formation of new connective tissue and microscopic blood vessels, often seen in the initial stages of wound healing, but does not specifically describe the final healing architecture found in surgically treated areas. Therefore, long junctional epithelium healing accurately captures the unique aspect of how tissues respond and ultimately regain function after a surgical flap procedure in the context of periodontal treatment.