Comparative study on the efficacy of gingival retraction using polyvinyl acetate strips and conventional retraction cord

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether the polyvinyl acetate strips are able to effectively displace the gingival tissues in comparison with the conventional retraction cord. Material and Methods: Complete metal ceramic preparation with supra-gingival margin was performed in ten maxillary incisors and gingival retraction was done using Merocel strips and conventional retraction cords alternatively in 2 weeks time interval. Theamount of displacement was compared using a digital vernier caliper of 0.01mm accuracy. Results were analyzed statistically using Paired students t-test. Results: The statistical analysis of the data revealed that both the conventional retraction cord and the Merocel strip produce significant retraction. Among both the materials, Merocel proved to be significantly more effective. Conclusion: Merocel strip produces more gingival displacement than the conventional retraction cord.