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Published on: January 12, 2019
Evaluation of new gingival retraction agents
W H Bowles1, S J Tardy, A Vahadi
1Department of Biochemistry, Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas 75246.
Journal of Dental Research
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Over-the-counter eye drops like Visine and Afrin effectively displace gingival tissue, offering a potential alternative to traditional agents. Further research is needed to fully understand their cardiovascular effects.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Current gingival retraction agents often have undesirable side effects.
- There is a need for safer and more effective gingival retraction solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of three over-the-counter sympathomimetic amine eye drops as gingival retraction agents.
- To compare their effectiveness against standard agents and a mechanical control.
Main Methods:
- Mongrel dogs were used as experimental subjects.
- Pulse rate and blood pressure were electronically monitored.
- Visine (tetrahydrozoline HCl), Afrin (oxymetazoline), and Neosynephrine (phenylephrine HCl) were tested as gingival retraction agents.
Main Results:
- Visine and Afrin demonstrated superior gingival tissue displacement compared to other agents.
- Neosynephrine, epinephrine, and alum were more effective than the untreated control.
- Minor cardiovascular changes were observed, including slight increases in systolic pressure and decreases in mean arterial pressure and pulse rate.
Conclusions:
- Certain over-the-counter eye drops show promise as effective gingival retraction agents.
- Further investigation into their safety and efficacy is warranted.
