Retraction Instruments & Accessories
15 products
About retraction instruments & accessories
Gingival retraction instruments place the cord: a cord packing instrument is made to insert the retraction cord into the gingival sulcus. A review describes its working end as narrow enough to wind the cord into the sulcus, but not so sharp as to cause bleeding or perforation of the sulcus wall. The instrument can be double-ended, with the working edge at more than one angle, so the cord can be carried around the tooth without changing hand position or tool. Working ends are smooth or serrated: smooth rounded ends are used mainly for stranded cord and serrated ends for braided cord, and the serrations keep the cord from slipping but can cause fraying.
The tools that place the cord and carry the agent, rather than the materials themselves. A review notes that a periodontal probe is used for interproximal cords, and a flat plastic instrument where the gingival tissue is thin.