New Zealand dentists' use of gingival retraction techniques for fixed prosthodontics and implants.

Objective: To identify the techniques most commonly used in New Zealand for gingival retraction for impressions of natural teeth and implants in fixed prosthodontics.

Design: Postal survey of a random sample of dentists

Methods: A questionnaire was mailed to all members of the New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA). Data were analysed using SPSS.

Results: The response rate was 51%. Veneer, crown and bridge treatments were routinely carried out by 89% of respondents, while implant treatment and/or implant-supported prostheses were provided by 65%. Around natural teeth, gingival retraction was mainly achieved with surgery (including electrosurgery, laser and rotary curettage) and/ or cord, by 82% of dentists. Cord with chemicals was used by 63% and plain cord by 37%. Gingival retraction around implants was used by 18%. Among the latter, the most popular gingival retraction method for use around implants was plain cord (used by 31%), while 25% used cord with chemicals. Another 23% reported using surgery as their means of gingival retraction around implants, while 19% reported using Expasyl (Pierre-Roland), and 2% reported using Magic Foam Cord (Dentsply), both of which are injectable matrices for gingival retraction.

Conclusion: Dentists in New Zealand undertake a considerable amount of fixed prosthodontic and implant work. Gingival retraction around natural teeth is used commonly, while only a small number of participants report using it for implants. A surprising finding was the relatively high number of participants who reported using surgery for gingival retraction around natural teeth.