Cord Packer
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A cord packer is a double-ended dental instrument for placing gingival retraction cord before impressions or scanning. Angled, fine tips seat cord precisely, control moisture, and expose margins for accurate restorations. The textured handle improves grip, while stainless steel construction endures repeated sterilization. Ideal for crown, bridge, veneer, and inlay/onlay procedures where clean, dry, clearly defined margins are essential for fit and long-term clinical success.
Description
A cord packer is a precision dental instrument used to place and adapt gingival retraction cord around a prepared tooth before impressions or digital scanning. The slim, angled tips guide the cord gently into the sulcus, creating temporary soft-tissue displacement and moisture control so margins are recorded accurately. This double-ended design offers two working profiles—typically one fine and one broader—to suit anterior and posterior teeth. The knurled handle provides non-slip control in wet fields, and the stainless steel body withstands routine autoclave sterilization.
Key features and benefits
• Double-ended tips for access in multiple quadrants
• Angled, fine working ends for controlled, atraumatic placement
• Optional serrations improve grip on braided or knitted cords
• Textured, ergonomic handle for confident manipulation with gloves
• Corrosion-resistant stainless steel for long service life and reliable sterilization
Typical applications
• Crown and bridge preparations to expose finish lines
• Veneers and inlay/onlay cases requiring clean, dry margins
• Hemostatic cord placement to manage crevicular fluid
• Tissue management prior to elastomeric impressions or intraoral scanning
Comparison insight
Compared with a plastic instrument or burnisher, a dedicated cord packer has narrower, angled tips and often light serrations that prevent slipping and reduce cord fraying. This allows firm yet gentle seating of the cord with fewer passes and less trauma.
Use guidance
Select a tip size that matches the cord diameter. Work in short segments, pressing apically and laterally rather than dragging. Rinse and ultrasonically clean after use, then sterilize per clinic protocol. Inspect tips routinely to maintain smooth edges.
