Clinical Overview
Ultrapak™ Size #000 is the thinnest knitted retraction cord available, made from 100 % cotton loops engineered into interlocking chains. Designed for fine sulci and delicate tissues, this ultra‑thin cord compresses on placement and gently expands to maintain continuous outward pressure. Optimal gingival displacement is achieved in approximately 1–3 minutes.
Key Benefits
- World’s smallest knitted cord: Ideal as the first (lower) cord in double-cord technique or for ultra-fine anterior margins.
- Knitted-loop structure: Compresses into sulcus and expands to exert gentle, stable retraction force superior to braided or twisted cords.
- Ultra-thin profile (~0.58 mm): Excellent for veneer preparations, pediatric cases, or fragile gingiva.
- Excellent fluid absorbency: Efficient delivery and retention of hemostatic agents like aluminum chloride or chlorhexidine. Enhances tissue control and dry field.
- CleanCut dispensing bottle: Integrated high-carbon blade and printed ruler ensure precise cutting; cap prevents cord loss.
- Non-entangling in rotary use: Flexible knitted loops reduce risk of catching on instruments.
Kit Contents
- 1 bottle (~8 ft / 244 cm) of Ultrapak™ Size #000 plain (non‑impregnated) knitted cord
- CleanCut cap with built-in high‑carbon blade and printed ruler
Application Protocol & Timing
- Cut the desired length using the integrated CleanCut cap blade; use printed ruler for measurement.
- Optionally moisten cord with a bonding‑compatible hemostatic solution (e.g. ViscoStat, aluminum chloride, chlorhexidine); plain cord is safe for all hemostatics.
- Using a thin packing instrument, gently insert cord into the sulcus until compression is felt.
- Leave cord in situ for approximately 1–3 minutes to allow expansion and tissue displacement.
- Remove cord with care; rinse and dry field, confirming margin exposure and hemostasis.
- Proceed with impression, bonding, or restorative procedure on a clean, visible field.
Indications
- Ideal for fine or delicate subgingival margin exposure (veneers, pediatric cases, restorative fine margins)
- First (inner) cord in double-cord technique when paired with larger sizes for lateral displacement
- Situations with narrow or fragile gingival tissues that require minimal trauma and precise access
Instructions for Use
- Determine needed length and cut cord using the CleanCut cap blade (measure via ruler).
- If needed, briefly soak cord in compatible hemostatic agent (plain cord can accept any agent, including ferric sulfate).
- Gently pack cord into sulcus using a rounded packing instrument until compressive retention is noted.
- Allow cord to remain in place for ~1–3 minutes to allow knitted loops to open and displace tissue.
- Remove cord carefully; rinse and dry field to verify margin visibility and hemostasis.
- Proceed immediately with impression-taking, adhesive placement, or final restoration while access is optimal.
Summary
Ultradent Ultrapak™ Size #000 (Ref. 137) provides ultra-fine gingival retraction with precision and control. Its ultra-thin knitted cotton design enables smooth packing into narrow sulci, rapid tissue displacement, and excellent fluid absorption. Supplied in a CleanCut bottle for efficient cutting and measurement, this cord is ideal for delicate anterior, veneer, pediatric, and double-cord applications—ensuring accurate marginal exposure and impression predictability.
