Retraction Cord

Description

Retraction cord is a small braided or knitted strand used to gently move the gingiva away from a prepared tooth. Placed into the sulcus with a cord packer, it creates a dry, accessible margin so you can capture details with impression material or an intraoral scanner. Many cords are used plain or with a hemostatic agent such as aluminum chloride or ferric sulfate to control crevicular fluid and minor bleeding. Sizes are color coded to match narrow to wide sulci and to support single- or double-cord techniques.

Key features and benefits:

• Mechanical tissue displacement exposes finish lines for accurate impressions and scans.

• Works with common hemostatic solutions to manage moisture and bleeding.

• Braided or knitted construction resists fraying and stays where you place it.

• Color-coded sizes help teams select the right thickness quickly.

• Compatible with elastomeric impressions and digital workflows.

• Cost-effective, reusable dispenser bottles keep the operatory organized.

Typical uses and applications:

• Crown and bridge preparations before final impressions or digital scans.

• Veneer and inlay/onlay cases to reveal subgingival margins.

• Class V restorations where moisture control is critical.

• Cementation appointments to re-expose margins and improve cleanup.

How it compares:

• Versus retraction paste alone, cord provides firmer, circumferential displacement and predictable hemostasis, especially at deep or uneven margins.

• Versus electrosurgery or lasers, cord is non-invasive, economical, and requires no equipment; however, advanced methods may be preferred for persistent bleeding or hyperplastic tissue.

Clinical notes:

• Choose the smallest size that displaces tissue without trauma.

• If using cords with vasoconstrictors, follow local guidelines and patient contraindications.

• Rinse hemostatic residue before impression or scanning to avoid surface inhibition.