Cheek and lip retractors and expanders position lips and cheeks away from teeth and gums to increase visibility and accessibility during dental procedures.
Table 1: Price and Quantity Comparison
| Product Name | Price (USD) | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota Retractor – Metal | $98.99 | 1/Pkg |
| Patterson® Cheek Retractor – University of Minnesota, Single End | $28.99 | 1/Pkg |
| Prichard Tissue Retractor, Titanium Coated Tips | $187.99 | 1/Pkg |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Orringer, Metal – # 2 Medium | $98.99 | 1/Pkg |
| Free Access II Cheek and Lip Retractors – Large | $129.99 | 1/Pkg |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Plastic, 2/Pkg – Adult | $46.99 | 2/Pkg |
| Lip-Ex Vertical Lip Retractors – Adult/Child, 2/Pkg | $48.99 | 4/Pkg |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Henahan, Metal, 504 Oval – 1 | $98.99 | 1/Pkg |
Table 2: Material and Sterilization Comparison
| Product Name | Material | Reusability | Compatible Sterilization |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota Retractor – Metal | Stainless Steel | Reusable | Autoclave, Chemiclave, Dry Heat, Ultrasonic |
| Patterson® Cheek Retractor – University of Minnesota, Single End | Stainless Steel | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Prichard Tissue Retractor, Titanium Coated Tips | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Orringer, Metal – # 2 Medium | Metal | Reusable | Cold Sterilization Only |
| Free Access II Cheek and Lip Retractors – Large | Not Specified | Not Specified | Autoclave |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Plastic, 2/Pkg – Adult | Plastic | Reusable | Cold Sterilization Only |
| Lip-Ex Vertical Lip Retractors – Adult/Child, 2/Pkg | Plastic | Reusable | Autoclave, Cold Sterilization |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Henahan, Metal, 504 Oval – 1 | Metal | Reusable | Cold Sterilization Only |
Table 3: Size and Tip Type Comparison
| Product Name | Size | Tip Type |
|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota Retractor – Metal | 5-3/4″ | University of Minnesota |
| Patterson® Cheek Retractor – University of Minnesota, Single End | Not Specified | University of Minnesota |
| Prichard Tissue Retractor, Titanium Coated Tips | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Orringer, Metal – # 2 Medium | Medium | Orringer |
| Free Access II Cheek and Lip Retractors – Large | Large | Not Specified |
| Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Plastic, 2/Pkg – Adult | Adult | Not Specified |
| Lip-Ex Vertical Lip Retractors – Adult/Child, 2/Pkg |
1. University of Minnesota Retractor

Product Description
The University of Minnesota Retractor by Nordent is a stainless steel cheek retractor designed for optimal soft tissue retraction during surgical dental procedures. Its unique angled shape allows for effective retraction of the cheek or tongue, providing clear visibility and access to the surgical site.
Product Overview
Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, this retractor is reusable and compatible with all standard sterilization methods, including autoclave, chemiclave, dry heat, and ultrasonic cleaning. Its ergonomic design and 5-3/4″ size make it a staple tool in both oral surgery and periodontal procedures.
Key Features
Angled tip for superior cheek and tongue retraction
Made from high-quality stainless steel
Reusable and autoclavable
Compatible with chemiclave, dry heat, and ultrasonic cleaning
Provides excellent access and visibility in surgical fields
Durable design with long service life
Common Applications
Retraction of cheek and tongue during surgical procedures
Use in oral surgery, periodontal, and implant procedures
Improved visibility during extractions, suturing, and grafting
General use in dental and surgical practices
Technical Specifications
Product Name: University of Minnesota Retractor
Brand: Nordent Mfg Inc.
Product Type: Cheek Retractor
Material: Stainless Steel
Color: Silver
Size: 5-3/4″
Tip Type: University of Minnesota
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheek, Tongue
Sterilization Methods: Autoclave, Chemiclave, Dry Heat, Ultrasonic
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Reliable and easy to handle
Excellent visibility and retraction
Comfortable for patients and clinicians
Sturdy and holds up well with repeated sterilization
2. Patterson® Cheek Retractor – University of Minnesota

Product Description
The Patterson® Cheek Retractor – University of Minnesota is a surgical-grade stainless steel instrument designed to retract cheeks, lips, flaps, and tongue to improve visibility during dental procedures. Its ergonomic design offers consistent performance and ease of use across a wide range of surgical applications.
Product Overview
This retractor is precision-crafted from high-quality stainless steel for durability and long-term clinical use. It is shaped in the classic University of Minnesota style, making it ideal for maintaining a clear view of the surgical field while minimizing tissue interference. Suitable for autoclave sterilization, it supports reliable performance in both routine and advanced dental surgeries.
Key Features
Designed to retract cheeks, lips, flaps, and tongue
Constructed from surgical-grade stainless steel
University of Minnesota tip design for optimal retraction
Provides excellent visibility during oral surgeries
Durable, reusable, and sterilizable
Compatible with common dental sterilization methods
Common Applications
Soft tissue retraction in oral surgery and periodontics
Improved visibility for extractions, suturing, and grafting
Use during implant placement and other surgical procedures
Routine and advanced dental surgical care
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Patterson® Cheek Retractor – University of Minnesota
Brand: Patterson®
Product Type: Lip and Cheek Retractor
Material: Stainless Steel
Tip Type: University of Minnesota
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips, Tongue
Sterilization: Compatible with autoclave and standard methods
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Excellent retraction and control
Durable and well-made
Maintains clear surgical field
A staple in surgical instrument trays
3. Prichard Tissue Retractor

Product Description
The Prichard Tissue Retractor by TBS Dental is a precision surgical instrument designed to effectively hold soft tissue flaps away from the treatment site during dental surgeries. With dual flat ends of varying sizes, it provides versatility for use in a wide range of surgical procedures.
Product Overview
Constructed with a blue titanium coating, this retractor offers enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and longevity compared to standard stainless steel. Its ergonomic design allows for stable handling and reduced clinician fatigue while improving visibility and access in the surgical field.
Key Features
Dual flat ends in different sizes for procedural flexibility
Designed for retracting tissue flaps during surgery
Blue titanium coating increases resistance to wear and corrosion
Durable and long-lasting construction
Provides excellent visibility and access to treatment sites
Ergonomic design for comfortable handling
Common Applications
Retraction of soft tissue flaps during periodontal and oral surgery
Improving access and visibility for grafting, suturing, and implant procedures
Soft tissue management in general and surgical dentistry
Use in flap elevation and retraction across multiple quadrants
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Prichard Tissue Retractor
Brand: TBS Dental
Product Type: Tissue Retractor
Material: Titanium-coated stainless steel
Tip Design: Dual flat ends (different sizes)
Color: Blue, Silver
Color Family: Blue, Silver
Function: Tissue flap retraction during surgery
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Strong and easy to control
Dual-ended design is versatile for many procedures
Blue titanium coating holds up well over time
A must-have tool for surgical setups
4. Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Austin, Metal

Product Description
The Austin-style Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors by Hu-Friedy are designed to securely retract mucoperiosteal flaps, cheeks, lips, and tongue from the surgical field. Crafted from durable metal, these retractors also serve as a helpful tool for intraoral photography, providing clear and unobstructed views of the treatment area.
Product Overview
Featuring a traditional Austin design, this retractor is built for both surgical efficiency and patient comfort. It is reusable and intended for cold sterilization only. The high-quality metal construction ensures long-term durability in clinical use while offering excellent tissue control and visibility.
Key Features
Designed to retract cheeks, lips, mucoperiosteal flaps, and tongue
Austin-style design for secure and effective retraction
Ideal for both surgical procedures and intraoral photography
Constructed from sturdy metal for long-lasting use
Cold sterilization only
Reusable and easy to handle
Common Applications
Retraction during oral and periodontal surgeries
Use in intraoral photography for clear visibility
Soft tissue management for grafting, suturing, and implant placement
General use in surgical and clinical dentistry
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Austin, Metal
Brand: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Product Type: Tissue Retractor
Material: Metal
Design Number: 2
Color: Silver
Color Family: Silver
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips, Tongue, Mucoperiosteal Flaps
Sterilization Method: Cold sterilization only
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Sturdy and effective for retraction
Great for both surgery and photography
Easy to clean and reuse
Classic Austin design trusted by clinicians
5. OptraGate® ExtraSoft Retractors

Product Description
OptraGate® ExtraSoft Retractors by Ivoclar Vivadent are lip and cheek retractors designed to gently and effectively provide full access to the anterior and posterior regions of the oral cavity. Their flexible, latex-free design ensures enhanced patient comfort while improving clinical visibility and access during dental procedures.
Product Overview
These retractors are ideal for procedures requiring moisture control, visibility, and easy access to the treatment area. Quick and easy to place, OptraGate® ExtraSoft is particularly suitable for pediatric patients due to its soft material and ergonomic shape. It supports a wide range of restorative and preventive treatments in general dentistry.
Key Features
Gently retracts lips and cheeks for unobstructed access
Improves visibility and accessibility during treatment
Quick, hassle-free placement
Enhances moisture control in the oral cavity
Flexible, soft design for maximum comfort
Latex-free – ideal for sensitive patients, including children
Common Applications
Routine dental exams and cleanings
Restorative and preventive procedures
Orthodontic bonding and bracket placement
Moisture control in pediatric and general dentistry
Increased visibility for photography and intraoral scanning
Technical Specifications
Product Name: OptraGate® ExtraSoft Retractors
Brand: Ivoclar Vivadent N.A.
Product Type: Lip and Cheek Retractor
Material: Plastic (Latex-free)
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips
Use Case: Soft tissue retraction and moisture control
Package Quantity: 80 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Extremely comfortable and easy to place
Perfect for pediatric and anxious patients
Provides excellent access for posterior treatments
Reliable for moisture isolation and visibility
6. Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Orringer, Metal

Product Description
The Orringer Cheek Retractor by Hu-Friedy is a metal retraction instrument designed to hold mucoperiosteal flaps, cheeks, lips, and tongue away from the surgical area, enhancing visibility and access during dental procedures. It is also a valuable tool for intraoral photography.
Product Overview
Constructed from durable metal, this retractor is reusable and intended for cold sterilization only. Its shape and rigidity make it ideal for retracting soft tissues during surgery or capturing unobstructed intraoral images. Designed for comfort and stability, it supports precision in both clinical and photographic settings.
Key Features
Designed to retract cheeks, lips, mucoperiosteal flaps, and tongue
Orringer design offers firm, stable retraction
Ideal for surgical procedures and intraoral photography
Constructed from high-quality metal for long-term use
Reusable with cold sterilization only
Provides excellent access to treatment sites
Common Applications
Tissue retraction during oral and periodontal surgery
Aiding in intraoral photography
Soft tissue management during restorative or surgical procedures
Use in general and specialty dental practices
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Orringer, Metal
Brand: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Product Type: Cheek Retractor
Material: Metal
Color: Silver
Color Family: Silver
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips, Tongue, Mucoperiosteal Flaps
Sterilization Method: Cold sterilization only
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Strong and effective retraction
Easy to use for surgery or photography
Durable and easy to maintain
Preferred by clinicians for its stable design
7. Free Access II Cheek and Lip Retractors

Product Description
The Free Access II Cheek and Lip Retractors by J Morita USA are innovative hands-free retractors designed to enhance intraoral visibility during dental procedures. Featuring a unique intraoral extension that retracts the powerful buccinator muscles, these retractors offer improved access to the working area while minimizing clinician interference.
Product Overview
Crafted from transparent material, the Free Access II retractors are ideal for clinical use and intraoral photography. They are autoclavable for safe and repeated sterilization, and their adjustable tensity provides a customizable fit for patient comfort and procedural needs.
Key Features
Hands-free retraction of cheeks and lips
Intraoral extension retracts buccinator muscles for better access
Transparent design suitable for intraoral photography
Adjustable tensity for optimal fit and comfort
Autoclavable for effective sterilization and reuse
Improves visibility and efficiency during treatment
Common Applications
Soft tissue retraction for restorative and orthodontic procedures
Intraoral photography and documentation
Hands-free access for digital scanning or mirror-assisted work
General dental treatments requiring increased visibility
Use in pediatric and adult patients
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Free Access II Cheek and Lip Retractors
Brand: J Morita USA
Product Type: Cheek Retractor
Material: Transparent medical-grade plastic
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips
Sterilization: Autoclavable
Reusability: Reusable
Tensity: Adjustable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Great hands-free design—very ergonomic
Perfect for photography and scanning
Easy to sterilize and adjust
Comfortable for patients and useful for many procedures
8. Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Plastic

Product Description
The Plastic Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors by Hu-Friedy are lightweight and durable instruments used to retract mucoperiosteal flaps, cheeks, lips, and tongue during dental procedures. Their design facilitates a clear view of the surgical area and makes them especially useful for intraoral photography.
Product Overview
Constructed from high-quality plastic, these retractors are reusable and intended for cold sterilization only. Their shape offers effective soft tissue retraction while ensuring patient comfort. Sold as a set of two, they are a convenient and practical option for both clinical and photographic use.
Key Features
Retracts cheeks, lips, tongue, and mucoperiosteal flaps
Made from durable, lightweight plastic
Ideal for intraoral photography and soft tissue management
Reusable and designed for cold sterilization only
Packaged in a convenient 2-pack
Comfortable and easy to use in clinical settings
Common Applications
Tissue retraction for oral surgery and dental procedures
Improved visibility for intraoral photography
Soft tissue control during restorative or orthodontic treatments
General use in dental and surgical environments
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Plastic
Brand: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Product Type: Cheek Retractor
Material: Plastic
Color: Silver
Color Family: Silver
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips, Tongue, Mucoperiosteal Flaps
Sterilization Method: Cold sterilization only
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 2 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Lightweight and comfortable for patients
Very useful for photography and soft tissue retraction
Affordable and easy to maintain
Reliable performance in clinical practice
9. Lip-Ex Vertical Lip Retractors

Product Description
Lip-Ex Vertical Lip Retractors by Hager Worldwide are designed to provide vertical expansion and hands-free retraction of the lips and cheeks during dental procedures. Made from clear plastic, these retractors improve access and visibility while allowing for sterilization and reuse.
Product Overview
These retractors are compatible with both autoclave and cold sterilization methods, making them a hygienic and practical tool for repeated clinical use. Designed for both adult and child patients, the Lip-Ex retractors offer gentle yet effective vertical expansion to optimize the intraoral field for treatment or photography.
Key Features
Vertical expansion design for enhanced access and retraction
Clear plastic for optimal visibility
Compatible with autoclave and cold sterilization
Reusable for multiple clinical applications
Sized for both adult and pediatric patients
Hands-free design improves procedural efficiency
Common Applications
Retraction of lips and cheeks during restorative, orthodontic, and surgical procedures
Intraoral photography and digital scanning
General dental exams and treatments requiring enhanced access
Soft tissue management for both adults and children
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Lip-Ex Vertical Lip Retractors
Brand: Hager Worldwide
Product Type: Lip Retractor
Material: Plastic
Color: Clear
Color Family: Clear
Size: Adult, Child
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips
Sterilization: Autoclave and Cold Sterilization
Special Features: Vertical expansion
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 4 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Great visibility and easy to use
Comfortable for both children and adults
Excellent for photography and scanning
Highly durable and easy to sterilize
10. Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Henahan

Product Description
The Henahan Cheek Retractor by Hu-Friedy is a durable metal instrument used to retract mucoperiosteal flaps, cheeks, lips, and tongue during dental surgical procedures. It is also an effective tool for achieving clear intraoral visibility during photography and clinical documentation.
Product Overview
Manufactured from high-quality metal, this retractor is reusable and intended for cold sterilization only. The Henahan design provides stable and effective retraction for improved access to the treatment area, making it suitable for both surgical applications and intraoral imaging.
Key Features
Henahan-style retractor for secure soft tissue management
Designed to retract cheeks, lips, tongue, and flaps
Constructed from strong, corrosion-resistant metal
Ideal for intraoral photography and surgical visibility
Reusable and suitable for cold sterilization only
Provides reliable access during dental procedures
Common Applications
Retraction for oral and periodontal surgeries
Intraoral photography and documentation
Improved visibility during implant placement, suturing, or grafting
General surgical and restorative dental procedures
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Cheek Retractors/Tissue Retractors – Henahan
Brand: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Product Type: Tissue Retractor
Material: Metal
Design Number: 1
Color: Silver
Color Family: Silver
Compatible Tissue Types: Cheeks, Lips, Tongue, Mucoperiosteal Flaps
Sterilization Method: Cold sterilization only
Reusability: Reusable
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Country of Origin: USA
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Provides excellent control and visibility
Sturdy and long-lasting design
Simple to clean and maintain
Great for both surgery and imaging purposes