KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE BASED SURVEY OF GINGIVAL RETRACTION AND ITS METHOD AMONG DENTAL PRACTITIONERS

Abstract Introduction: The long-term success of indirect restorations like inlays, veneers and full coverage crown depends on the marginal adaptation between the prepared teeth and the crown. The margin of the crown is placed equigingival or subgingival based on the caries and esthetic needs. The success of the indirect restorations also depends on the accurate impression of the finish line for the snap marginal fit. The elastomeric impression materials such as the hydrocolloids and the rubber base impression materials, used in the construction of inlays, crowns, and bridges, do not displace the gingival tissues and necessitate gingival retraction to expose the gingival margins of the tooth preparations. The role of gingival retraction is to temporarily displace the gingiva for flow of impression material into the sulcus and to record the finish line. Objective: The objective of this present study was to assess the knowledge, attitude & practice of gingival retraction and its method among dental practitioners in Chennai. Materials and method: A questionnaire-based survey consisting of 15 questions was conducted between February to March 2023. Results: This study showed that 41.7% the clinicians used combination of methods for gingival retraction and 43% used advanced gingival retraction like expasyl material. Conclusion: The increased level of knowledge and information about gingival displacement materials and methods shall definitely improve the periodontal health and increase clinical longevity of the indirect restorations.