Are all extraction sites required to be closed?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in the maxilla
• D. Only if infection present

Answer: (A)

After a tooth is extracted, closing the socket to achieve primary closure is the preferred approach because it protects the blood clot, limits microbial ingress, and guides predictable healing. Suturing the surrounding tissue brings the gums together over the socket, stabilizing the clot and reducing the chances of food impaction and trauma to the healing site. This tends to result in faster, more reliable healing and a lower risk of complications like dry socket or infection. In this context, all extraction sites are closed to promote optimal healing, whereas leaving a socket open or only closing in specific cases would generally lead to less predictable outcomes.