What indicates sufficient cord placement?

The correct indication of sufficient cord placement is when the cord is uninterrupted and circumferentially visible all around the tooth. This visibility is crucial because it signifies that the cord has been properly positioned to displace the gingival tissue effectively. Proper placement helps create a clear and accurate margin for impression-taking, which is essential for achieving precise fit and adaptation of the prosthetic crown or restoration.

The uninterrupted nature of the cord indicates that it is adequately dense and has been placed without gaps, ensuring that it will create a uniform and predictable gingival retraction throughout the entire circumference of the tooth. This is important for capturing the proper contour of the preparation in the final impressions.

Maintaining contact with the gingiva in the approximal areas is important, but the overall visibility and continuity of the cord around the tooth provide a more comprehensive indication of sufficient placement. Therefore, the comprehensive placement along the entire tooth, as indicated by the cord being viewed all around, is the primary marker for successful preparation and is critical in achieving the desired outcomes in prosthodontic procedures.