Comparative evaluation of gingival displacement using retraction cord impregnated with Astringedent®, Magic foam and Expasyl: an in vivo study: Gingival displacement using various retraction cords

Background: Gingival retraction helps in achieving good quality impressions. These are needed for a precision fit and long-term success with fixed prosthodontic restorations. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficiency of gingival displacement obtained using Expasyl, Magic foam cord and Medicated retraction cord. Materials and methods: One hundred twenty patients with the requirement of full veneer crowns were selected. They were divided into three groups, forty subjects in each group (twenty subjects by each operator) namely Expasyl, Magic foam cord and Medicated retraction cord. The impressions obtained before and after placing the retraction system were poured with type IV die stone. The casts obtained before and after placing the retraction system were coded in a blind fashion to avoid the influence of the operator. The casts were viewed under tool maker microscope “10X” magnification for the amount of both depth and width of gingival displacement. Results: Mesial, distal, mid-buccal, mid-lingual were taken as reference points and for Medicated retraction cord, Expasyl and Magic foam cord the mean values are 0.50mm, 0.49mm and 0.29mm respectively in horizontal displacement and 0.56mm, 0.47mm and 0.31mm respectively in vertical displacement. One way ANOVA was used to calculate the p-value and multiple range test by the Tukey-HSD analysis to identify significant groups at 5% level. The level of significance for all tests was set as p < 0.05. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, Magic foam cord showed the ease of placement followed by Expasyl retraction system and Medicated retraction cord. Clinical significance: Gingival retraction helps in achieving good quality impressions. These are needed for a precision fit and long-term success with fixed prosthodontic restorations. Selecting techniques and materials that produce transient retraction and dry field without irreversible damages to the tissues is of utmost importance