Which statement best summarizes the extraction site closure protocol described?

• A. Start at the corners, suture every 3 mm, use 3-0 to 5-0 monocryl, simple interrupted cruciate pattern, close all sites, ensure gingival collar on remaining teeth.
• B. Start at the center, suture every 2 mm, use nylon, running pattern, close only some sites, ignore gingival collar.
• C. Start at the corners, suture every 5 mm, use silk, mattress pattern, leave sites open.
• D. Start at the center, suture every 4 mm, use gut, diffuse pattern, only posterior sites.

Answer: (A)

Starting at the corners and working with evenly spaced, secure sutures ensures reliable edge alignment and minimizes tearing as the wound is closed. Using a small-gauge, absorbable monofilament like Monocryl keeps tissue reaction low and avoids a second visit for suture removal. Placing sutures every about 3 mm with a simple interrupted cruciate pattern provides strong, even closure of each extraction site and distributes tension across the area, which is crucial in the moist, dynamic oral environment. Closing all sites recreates the gingival contour and forms a gingival collar around the remaining teeth, helping protect healing sockets and maintain esthetic and functional gingival architecture. Alternatives that start in the center, use nonabsorbable materials, employ continuous or inappropriate patterns, or leave sites open tend to pucker, loosen, or leave gaps that can impair healing, increase infection risk, and disrupt the gingival contour. This combination—corner starts, 3 mm spacing, absorbable monofilament, interrupted cruciate pattern, and closure of all sites with attention to the gingival collar—offers the most reliable and optimal healing outcome.