Gingival Retraction Methods: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The total number of teeth assessed in the 10 included studies was 400. The most common method used for gingival retraction was chemomechanical. The results were heterogeneous with regards to the outcome variables. No method seemed to be significantly superior to the other in terms of gingival retraction achieved. Clinical parameters were not significantly affected by the gingival retraction method.

Comparison of Gingival Retraction Materials Using a New Gingival Sulcus Model

“…Comparable results were reported in a recent systematic review, including 10 studies dealing with gingival retraction methods . However, the lack of heterogeneous methodology made appropriate comparisons between the studies very difficult .…”

“…Mechanical methods are based on physical lateral and vertical displacement of the gingiva usually by plain retraction cords; this method is recommended in patients where fluid seepage or bleeding is not an issue . The mechanochemical retraction method is the most commonly used method . Mechanochemical methods are pastes, gels, or retraction cords saturated with astringents or hemostatic agents, for example, and can be used in instances where a dry and clean impression is impeded by blood or sulcus fluid …”

“…10 The mechanochemical retraction method is the most commonly used method. 1,11,12 Mechanochemical methods are pastes, gels, or retraction cords saturated with astringents or hemostatic agents, for example, and can be used in instances where a dry and clean impression is impeded by blood or sulcus fluid. 5,10 Gingiva retraction by mechanical or mechanochemical methods is similar in that they are physical procedures that generate pressure during displacement.…”

The Direct Cytotoxic Effects of Different Hemostatic Agents on Human Gingival Fibroblasts

“…Various methods employed for retraction and management of the marginal soft tissues include mechanical, chemo‐mechanical, rotary gingival curettage, and electrosurgical . The chemo‐mechanical method most frequently used by dental practitioners involves displacement of gingival sulcus with a cord‐like material chemically treated by compounds to induce tissue shrinkage . The efficacy of gingival retraction materials is based on effective displacement of gingival margin away from the prepared tooth allowing penetration of sufficient bulk of the impression material inside the sulcus.…”

Impression Techniques Used for Single‐Unit Crowns: Findings from the National Dental Practice‐Based Research Network

“…Steps associated with making a crown include gingival displacement, impression of the prepared tooth, obtaining a jaw relationship record, and registration of the opposing dentition. The first step, gingival retraction or displacement, often uses a mechanical element placed into the gingival sulcus, such as a cord or paste . A general goal is to create a gap of about 0.2 mm or more around the finish line of the preparation .…”