Gingival retraction or
gingival recession is when there is lateral movement of the gingival margin away from the tooth surface. It is usually termed
gingival retraction as an intentional procedure, and in such cases it is performed by mechanical, chemical, or electrical means in order to perform certain
dental surgery procedures. It is usually referred to as
gingival recession as a spontaneous or non-intentional presentation, and in such cases it may indicate an underlying inflammation, a
pocket formation or displacement of the
marginal gingivae away from the tooth by mechanical, chemical, or surgical means. It may expose the roots of the teeth, similarly to
gingival recession.
Gingival retraction Gingival retraction paste Use of gingival retraction paste has been demonstrated to be most successful in providing a dry field and imposing minimal injury on the surrounding periodontium. It has a decreased ability to retract gingival tissues however, in comparison to a retraction cord.
Gingival retraction cord A retraction cord, although more damaging to the gingival tissues, has proven to displace gingival tissues more effectively and is therefore recommended in instances where thick periodontium is present. Without any chemical additions, such as epinephrine or sulphate compounds, the cord on its own does not produce
haemostasis at the sulcus. == See also ==