Effects of Gingival Retraction Materials on Gingival Blood Flow

Purpose: The effects of 2 chemical retraction agents on gingival blood flow and systemic blood pressure in subjects with healthy gingiva were investigated. Materials and Methods: Thirty volunteer dental students were selected for the study and randomly divided into 2 groups. Aluminium chloride-impregnated cord (right side) and nonimpregnated cord (left side) were placed in the gingival sulcus of group 1. Epinephrine-impregnated cord (right side) and nonimpregnated cord (left side) were placed in group 2. Blood flow in the retracted marginal gingiva was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry, and the systemic blood pressures of subjects were recorded before and after the retraction procedure. Results: A statistically significant decrease in blood flow was observed in group 2, but there was no significant change in gingival blood flow in group 1. A decrease in diastolic blood pressure of the subjects in group 2 was also observed. However, there was no significant change in blood pressure of the subjects in group 1. Conclusion: Gingival retraction affects gingival blood flow temporarily. Epinephrine-impregnated cords can be used safely in patients who have healthy gingiva, if patient stress and gingival trauma are avoided during cord placement.