Managing the Gingival Sulcus for Prosthodontic Precision: A Narrative Review of Gingival Retraction Methods

Effective gingival tissue management is essential for accurate impressions and successful restorations inftxed prosthodontics. Retraction is necessary to expose the finish line, control moisture and bleeding and facilitate impression material flow. Margins within the gingival sulcus require displacement techniques that balance efficacy with periodontal health. This review synthesizes evidence on gingival retraction methods in prosthodontic practice, examining their mechanisms, effectiveness, tissue response and digital workflow integration. A literature search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar using terms "gingival retraction, " ''gingival displacement," "impression technique," "hemostatic agents,"and "cordless retraction. " English-language articles on prosthodontic tissue management were included. Four retraction categories were identified: mechanical (retraction cords), chemicomechanical (chemically impregnated cords), cordless systems (expanding pastes and injectable materials) and surgical approaches. Studies show mechanical retraction with aluminum chloride-impregnated cords achieves maximum displacement, though all methods cause temporary gingival changes. Gingival retraction method selection must balance impression accuracy with tissue preservation. Understanding principles and tissue responses enables evidence-based clinical decision-making.