Present status and future directions: Soft tissue management in prosthodontics

During restorative dental procedures, complete control over the operative site is critical for patient comfort, safety, and the operator's access and visibility. The success of a fixed prosthesis depends on accurate impression making of the prepared finish lines on the abutment teeth. To optimise long-term outcomes for the fixed restoration, gingival retraction techniques should be used to decrease the marginal discrepancy among the restoration and the prepared abutment. Accurate marginal positioning of the restoration along the prepared finish line of the abutment is essential for therapeutic, preventive, and aesthetic purposes.