Modification of a Cheek Retractor for High-Volume Evacuation

Simultaneous cheek retraction and high-volume evacuation are desirable for many moisture-sensitive tasks such as bracket bonding, but generally require a chairside assistant. We have modified a standard cheek retractor to simplify this procedure.

Bend two segments of .036" stainless steel wire^* so that each wire has a 10-12mm-diameter helix at one end and several retentive tags at the other (Fig. A).

Using a chemically cured bisGMA resin with the sprinkle-on technique, affix one of the wires to each side of the retractor (Fig. B).

The modified cheek retractor can now be used in conjunction with high-volume evacuation to ensure a moisture-free field during bonding, with less need for chairside assistance (Fig. C).