Gingival Retraction with Astringedent and Ultrapak Cord

Quick answer

For clean, dry gingival retraction, pack Ultrapak knitted cord gently into the sulcus, then apply Astringedent 15.5% Ferric Sulfate on the cord to control bleeding and achieve a dry field for accurate impressions.

Step‑by‑step retraction with Astringedent and Ultrapak cord

1. Select and cut the cord: Choose Ultrapak knitted cord (plain or epinephrine) based on tissue condition. Cut a length slightly longer than the sulcus circumference so you have a small tail for grasping. Common mistake: cutting the cord too short makes it difficult to remove. Leave a 2–3 mm tail.
2. Pack the cord gently: Using a Fischer's Ultrapak packer or similar instrument, tuck the cord into the sulcus without forcing. The cord should sit just below the gingival margin without blanching the tissue. Checkpoint: if tissue blanches white, the cord is packed too tightly. Loosen slightly to avoid ischemia.
3. Apply Astringedent to the cord: Dip a microbrush or small cotton pellet into Astringedent 15.5% Ferric Sulfate and dab it onto the packed cord. Wait 30–60 seconds for hemostasis. Common mistake: applying too much solution can overflow onto adjacent teeth and cause staining. Use a minimal amount.
4. Rinse and dry the area: Gently rinse the sulcus with water or air‑water spray to remove excess ferric sulfate. Dry with a gentle air stream. The tissue should appear pale and dry. Checkpoint: if bleeding resumes, re‑apply Astringedent for another 30 seconds before rinsing again.
5. Remove the cord and take the impression: Grasp the tail and remove the cord in one smooth motion. Immediately syringe the impression material into the sulcus and seat the tray. Work quickly—the dry field lasts only a few minutes. Common mistake: waiting too long after cord removal allows the sulcus to fill with fluid. Take the impression within 30 seconds.

Products used in this technique

• Astringedent™-15.5% Ferric Sulfate: Astringedent 15.5% Ferric Sulfate is a classic hemostatic agent well-suited for a variety of dental procedures. Its ferric sulfate formulation quickly coagulates blood proteins, giving you a dry sulcus for accurate impressions without prolonged waiting.

  

• Ultrapak™ and Ultrapak™ E-Knitted & Epinephrine Knitted Cord: Ultrapak knitted cord is the world’s smallest knitted cord; it compresses upon packing then expands for optimal retraction. The knitted structure allows gentle placement and stable expansion, reducing tissue trauma while maintaining sulcular access.