Evaluation of Gingival Displacement Methods

"A thin cord (type 00) was soaked in 15% ferric sulfate ferric sulfate hemostatic solution and carefully packed into the gingival sulcus. After 3 minutes, the cord was removed and the sulcus was rinsed. This is a traditional mechanical gingival displacement method."

A retraction paste was applied using a capsule tip placed around the gingival margin. The paste remained in place for 3 minutes and was then rinsed off with air-water spray. This is a non-traumatic chemical displacement technique.

Retractrion paste in injector form with compression cap (15% aluminum chloride) was injected into the sulcus, and a cotton compression cap was placed over the tooth. Patients gently bit on the cap for 3 minutes to apply pressure. Afterward, the paste and cap were removed and the area was rinsed. This method combines chemical and slight mechanical displacement.

A 810-nm diode laser with a 400-micron fiber optic tip was used in contact mode to ablate the sulcular epithelium. The laser was operated at 1.0 W with pulsed settings. The procedure was completed by wiping the area with saline to remove residues. This technique enables precise, bloodless gingival retraction with minimal trauma.