The primary causes for flap dehiscence include: an inappropriately designed flap, inadequately prepared flap, and tension on the sutured flap.  Other causes include: trauma from the animal chewing hard objects, or manipulation of the surgival site for administration of medications.

The fundamental tennents of surgery apply to oral surgery.  The operator must carefully plan before the procedure.  Flap design should allow for: adequate access and visibility, hemorrhage control, gentle tissue handling, maximum blood supply to the flap, cleanliness and repair of the surgical defect.