The Influence of Hemostatic Agents and Cordless Gingival Retraction Materials on Smear Layer: An Ex vivo Scanning Electron Microscope Analysis

CONTEXT: Cordless gingival retraction materials are now routinely used method for gingival retraction. Although evidence-based information is available on the effect of gingival displacement cord and cordless system on the effectiveness of displacement and the periodontal health, there is a lack of literature regarding the effect of cordless retraction agents on enamel and dentin substrates. AIM: The purpose of this investigation was to analyze the changes on the smear layer induced by the hemostatic agent and cordless retraction material at scanning electron microscopic level. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ferric sulfate (15.5% m/v), expasyl, and magic foam cord were evaluated. Buccal surfaces of 16 recently extracted mandibular premolars were prepared for metal-ceramic crowns, and four teeth each were exposed to ferric sulfate solution, expasyl, and magic foam cord, respectively, for 5 min. Teeth in the control group were exposed to distilled water. The assessment of changes was performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). RESULTS: SEM exhibited smear layer covering the dentin and occluding the dentinal tubules in the control group. Exposure to ferric sulfate caused the opening of few of the dentinal tubules whereas expasyl caused the partial removal of smear layer with dentinal plugs partially occluding the openings of most of the dentinal tubules. The specimens treated with magic foam exhibited a smear layer similar to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The smear layer was affected most with ferric sulfate solution, followed by expasyl and magic foam cord. Magic foam cord did not affect the smear layer.