Comparative Evaluation of Clinical Efficacy of Two New Gingival Retraction Systems - An In Vivo Research

Background Making an impression for fixed prosthesis require the gingival tissue to be displaced to expose the finish lines on the prepared teeth. Therefore, effectively managing the gingiva prior to making an impression is a critical preliminary step in the process of fabricating restorations. Because of enormous variability of clinical cases, it is not possible to use a single method or impression material for fixed prosthesis. Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the amount of lateral displacement by laser and magicfoam retraction systems. Methods and Material Study was conducted on prepared right or left maxillary central incisor for 30 subjects. The pre and post displacement impressions were made with addition silicone material using two stage double mix technique. Final cast were sectioned longitudinally into equal halves. The sectioned halves were assessed under stereomicroscope. The measurements were made from crest of gingival margin to midbuccal surface of the tooth. The amount of gingival displacement in each group was calculated by substracting the pre displacement values from post displacement values. From the observations obtained statistical analysis was performed using independent sample t test. Results Group A showed more amount of lateral displacement than group B. However, amount of gingival displacement between groupA and group B showed statistically significant difference. Conclusion Laser retraction system produced more lateral displacement of gingival compared to magicfoam retraction system.