Gingival Retraction

Gingival Retraction

Gingival retraction is defined as the procedure of exposing the tooth or dental work for taking an impression. Gingival retraction is a dental procedure that is used in both periodontics and prosthodontics. It is used to create an architectural impression of a patient's teeth and the surrounding gum tissue to ensure accurate restorative work.

Gingival retraction involves gently pushing back the patient's gum tissue during preparation for a cast gold or porcelain restoration. Doing so allows the dentist to create an impression of the teeth and gums that is much more accurate than traditional impressions. This ensures that restorative work is precise and well-crafted.

Gingival retraction can be accomplished in one of two ways: with a gingival retraction cord or with a laser.

Gingival Retraction Cord

Gingival retraction cord is the traditional method for retracting the tissues and taking impressions. It is a resilient cotton string that is placed into the sulcus in between the gums and teeth. This string then displaces the gingival tissues to provide a more accurate impression for the dentist to take.

Laser Gingival Retraction

Laser gingival retraction is a new and increasingly popular method for retracting and taking impressions. A soft tissue laser is used in this procedure to safely and comfortably retract the tissues from the tooth surfaces. The laser's energy causes the cells in the gums to shrink, thereby displacing them from the teeth and allowing for a more precise impression.

Gingival retraction is an important part of restorative dentistry and can make the difference between an average restoration and an excellent one. For this reason, if you are having a restoration done, it is important to make sure your dentist is familiar with gingival retraction and employs it in order to ensure the best possible results.