During the healing process, what occurs 1-3 days after surgery?

One to three days after surgical intervention, a vital part of the healing process is the migration of epithelial cells over the surgical flap. This process is important as it leads to the initial stages of tissue regeneration and helps to cover the wound. Epithelial cells are crucial for protecting the underlying tissues and facilitating healing, as they help to re-establish the integrity of the oral mucosa.

During this early healing phase, the development and sustainability of a blood clot are also crucial, but this may not be indicative of being fully formed or intact. The space between the flap and underlying structures like the tooth or bone can be thick due to the inflammatory response, but this is not a desirable part of the healing process. Clinically, the area may not appear normal, as inflammation and healing signs are typically present shortly after surgery. Therefore, the migration of epithelial cells over the flap is a key indicator of the initiation of the healing process, underscoring its significance in post-surgical recovery in periodontal procedures.