A knitted nonimpregnated cord is a gingival retraction cord made from cotton or synthetic fibers that are knitted (not twisted or braided) and not pre-soaked with any chemical agent (i.e., nonimpregnated).
SureCord Knitted Retraction Cord is a brand of knitted, gingival retraction cord commonly used in dentistry for precise and atraumatic gingival displacement.
Key Characteristics:
Knitted: The fibers are looped together in a way that allows the cord to expand when moistened, which helps in gentle but effective gingival retraction.
Nonimpregnated: It does not contain any hemostatic or vasoconstrictive agents (e.g., epinephrine or aluminum chloride).
Absorbent: Can be soaked in a hemostatic solution if needed before placement. Conforms well to the sulcus due to its elasticity and compressibility.
Uses:
Used to temporarily retract the gingiva for: Taking dental impressions Crown or bridge preparations Restorative procedures near the gingival margin .
Size Color Indication:
000 Violet Very fine — pediatric or narrow sulcus
00 Yellow Fine — lower anterior
0 Blue Medium — general use
1 Green Medium-thick — molars
2 Black Thick — deep sulcus or heavy tissue
Advantages:
Allows custom impregnation with a solution of choice. Less risk of adverse reactions compared to cords impregnated with epinephrine. Expands gently, improving retraction and fluid control.
Examples of Use in Practice:
1. Dentist isolates the tooth.
2. Selects the appropriate size of knitted nonimpregnated cord.
3. (Optional) Soaks the cord in hemostatic solution like (e.g., aluminum chloride or ferric sulfate).
4. Places it gently into the gingival sulcus to retract the tissue.
5. After sufficient retraction, impression or procedure is completed.
