Dental Suture Selection Chart: Choose the Right Suture for Every Procedure

Quick answer: Dental suture selection depends on procedure type, tissue tension, healing time and plaque retention risk. Absorbable sutures are commonly used for routine closures, while monofilament non-absorbable sutures may be preferred where precise flap stability and minimal bacterial wicking are required.

Dental Suture Selection Chart

How to Interpret the Chart

This chart provides general clinical guidance. Final suture selection depends on tissue thickness, wound tension, patient hygiene and healing time. In most cases, clinicians aim to use the smallest diameter suture that provides adequate wound support.

Absorbable vs Monofilament in Dentistry

Absorbable Sutures

• Common for routine closures
• No removal appointment required
• Gradual loss of tensile strength

Monofilament Sutures

• Lower plaque retention
• Reduced bacterial wicking
• Stable tensile support

Conclusion

Dental suture selection should be procedure-specific. Extraction closures prioritise comfort, implant and periodontal procedures require stable flap control, and GBR demands reliable tension-free closure. Using the appropriate size and material improves healing outcomes and surgical predictability.