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Oral Surgery · single question

When designing a surgical flap for extraction of tooth #17 (lower left third molar), the releasing incision should:

  1. Extend anteriorly over the tongue
  2. Always be made with a mesial incision only
  3. Terminate on bone (over a bony eminence)
  4. End on soft tissue only, away from bone
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Correct answer: C. Terminate on bone (over a bony eminence)

  • A. Extending anteriorly over the tongue would be an incorrect anatomical approach for a lower third molar flap.
  • B. A mesial incision alone (envelope flap) without a releasing incision limits access. When releasing incisions ARE added, they should terminate on bone.
  • C. A fundamental principle of flap design is that releasing (vertical) incisions should END ON BONE — specifically over a bony eminence or support. This prevents tearing of the flap at closure and ensures adequate blood supply for healing. ✓
  • D. Releasing incisions that end on soft tissue only risk tearing and poor healing at the suture margin.

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