Efficacy of hemostasis and gingival retraction of Merocel strip compared with conventional retraction cord utilizing digital gypsum model: a randomized controlled trial

This study aimed to ascertain whether the Merocel strips (MS) can achieve adequate hemostasis and effectively retract the gingiva compared to the aluminum chloride-impregnated knitted retraction cord (ACIKRC) utilizing a digital gypsum model. It was a randomized, double-blinded, split-mouth, active-controlled clinical trial. The sample consisted of 122 abutments that were randomly divided into two groups. Group A: Gingival retraction was evaluated in 44 abutments. A single gypsum model was created by matching models before (t₀) and after (t₁) gingival retraction utilizing exocad software to record gingival horizontal displacement angles. Group B: Hemostatic efficacy was assessed in 78 abutments at t₀ and t₁. Each group was further divided into two equal sub-groups. Sub-group I: ACIKRC Size 000. Sub-group II: MS. The mean value of gingival horizontal displacement angles in the MS (25.09 ± 15.53) group was higher than the ACIKRC (19.93 ± 10.95) group (p = 0.158). The mean value of gingival bleeding scores in the MS (0.02 ± 0.22) group was significantly lower than the ACIKRC (0.77 ± 0.71) group (p < 0.05) at t₁. MS in 0.75 mm thickness without a temporary crown and ACIKC provided similar horizontal gingival retraction abilities. However, MS showed better bleeding control.