b. Suture Removal. Following surgery, the patient will be instructed in home
care. Generally, he is instructed not to rinse on the day of surgery in order to avoid
disturbing the clot. The following day, he should rinse gently with warm salt water to
promote healing. He will receive exact instructions concerning any medication that he is
to use. Another appointment is given at least 48 hours later for the removal of sutures.
Other special instructions may be given as well, and he must always receive instructions
to return to the clinic as soon as possible if any complications develop. The specialist
should observe the patient postoperatively until all instructions have been given to the
patient and he has left the clinic. Many dentists will ask dental specialists to remove
sutures. See figure 3-37 for steps of suture removal.
Figure 3-37. Suture removal.
MD0503
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