Cord packers are dental instruments used to pack gingival retraction cords into the sulcus. The cord packers with round, nonserrated working ends are used for atraumatic cord placement; serrated cord packers should only be used with braided cord.
Table 1: Comparison of Numeric Data for Top 10 Dental Cord Packers
Design Number | Number of Ends | Package Quantity | Price (USD) | Average Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
Taper Straight, Double End – Serrated | Double | 1/Pkg | 40.49 | 4.0 |
CSI1, Non-Serrated, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 50.99 | 4.7 |
113 Yardley, Non-Serrated, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 56.29 | 4.4 |
Balshi Packer Angled, Smooth, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 27.49 | 4.7 |
Stark – Posterior/Anterior, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 42.49 | 4.6 |
PT-55, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 70.99 | 4.3 |
# 113, Double End, Alabaster Gray – Off Angle | Double | 1/Pkg | 36.49 | 4.5 |
# N113, Straight Blades, Double End – Plain (Smooth) | Double | 1/Pkg | 42.49 | 4.0 |
Gingi-Pak® Cord Packer # 1, Steel Handle, Posterior, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 38.49 | 4.3 |
Vista-Pak™ Standard Packer with Plain Tip, Double End | Double | 1/Pkg | 34.99 | 4.1 |
Note: Prices are from the website pattersondental.com and the average rating is from customer reviews.
Table 2: Comparison of Key Features for Top 10 Dental Cord Packers
Design Number | Manufacturer Name | Handle Material | Number of Ends | Tip Texture | Tip Type |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Taper Straight, Double End – Serrated | Premier Dental Products | N/A | Double | Serrated | Taper Straight |
CSI1, Non-Serrated, Double End | Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc. | N/A | Double | Smooth | N/A |
113 Yardley, Non-Serrated, Double End | Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc. | N/A | Double | Smooth | Yardley |
Balshi Packer Angled, Smooth, Double End | Premier Dental Products | N/A | Double | Smooth | Balshi Angled |
Stark – Posterior/Anterior, Double End | Gingi-Pak, Div. Of Belport | Silicone | Double | N/A | N/A |
PT-55, Double End | Pascal Company, Inc. | Silicone | Double | Serrated | N/A |
# 113, Double End, Alabaster Gray – Off Angle | PDT INC | Resin | Double | N/A | N/A |
# N113, Straight Blades, Double End – Plain (Smooth) | NORDENT MANUFACTURING CO | Stainless Steel | Double | Smooth | N/A |
Gingi-Pak® Cord Packer # 1, Steel Handle, Posterior, Double End | Gingi-Pak, Div. Of Belport | Stainless Steel | Double | N/A | N/A |
Vista-Pak™ Standard Packer with Plain Tip, Double End | Vista Dental Products | N/A | Double | Smooth | N/A |
Note: N/A stands for not applicable, as there is no available information or the feature is not present.
Top 10 Gingival Retraction Cords for Crown Prep
1. Taper Straight, Double End – Serrated

Product Description
The Taper Straight, Double End – Serrated instrument is a precision dental tool designed for tasks requiring enhanced grip and control. Its double-ended, serrated tips provide excellent tactile feedback and precision during various clinical procedures.
Product Overview
This tool features a standard handle and two serrated taper straight tips, offering symmetrical functionality and versatility. Designed by Premier Dental Products, it is built for durability and dependable performance, making it suitable for both restorative and diagnostic applications.
Key Features
- Serrated taper straight tips for enhanced grip and precision
- Double-ended for extended usability and balance
- Standard handle for familiar, ergonomic control
- Constructed from high-quality stainless steel
- Ideal for a range of clinical tasks requiring tactile control
Common Applications
- Material placement and shaping
- General restorative procedures
- Diagnostic and manipulation tasks
- Chairside adjustments
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Taper Straight, Double End – Serrated
Brand: Premier®
Tip Type: Taper Straight
Tip Texture: Serrated
Handle Type: Standard
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Premier Dental Products
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Dental Hand Instrument
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Serrated tips offer excellent grip on materials
- Balanced and easy to maneuver
- Durable and reliable in daily clinical use
- Comfortable handle for extended procedures
2. CSI1, Non-Serrated, Double End

Product Description
The CSI1, Non-Serrated, Double End instrument is a versatile dental tool designed for precise manipulation and control during a variety of clinical procedures. Featuring smooth, non-serrated tips, it ensures gentle handling of materials and soft tissues without surface disruption.
Product Overview
This double-ended instrument offers uniform performance on both ends, making it ideal for multi-purpose use. Its standard handle ensures a comfortable, ergonomic grip, and the high-quality stainless steel construction guarantees long-term durability. The non-serrated tips are perfect for tasks requiring delicate contact and smooth gliding.
Key Features
- Non-serrated tips for smooth, gentle contact
- Double-ended design for versatile use
- Ideal for precise manipulation and control
- Made of high-quality stainless steel
- Standard handle ensures comfort and stability
Common Applications
- Handling soft tissue and restorative materials
- General diagnostic procedures
- Fine adjustment of dental components
- Chairside finishing and contouring tasks
Technical Specifications
Product Name: CSI1, Non-Serrated, Double End
Brand: CSI®
Tip Type: Smooth (Non-Serrated)
Handle Type: Standard
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: [Manufacturer name not provided—please confirm if CSI is the manufacturer]
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Dental Hand Instrument
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Smooth tips work well on delicate surfaces
- Easy to handle with excellent balance
- Durable and maintains shape after repeated use
- Great for finishing work and minor adjustments
3. 113 Yardley, Non-Serrated, Double End

Product Description
The 113 Yardley, Non-Serrated, Double End instrument is a precision gingival cord packer designed for gentle and accurate placement of retraction cord. Built for atraumatic procedures, it ensures patient comfort while achieving effective tissue retraction.
Product Overview
Manufactured by Hu-Friedy, this double-ended instrument features smooth Yardley-style tips that allow for controlled cord placement without shredding or trauma. The 41 round handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring excellent maneuverability during restorative procedures.
Key Features
- Yardley-style smooth tips for atraumatic cord packing
- Double-ended for balanced handling and versatility
- 41 round handle for ergonomic grip and control
- Ideal for precise gingival tissue management
- Constructed from high-quality stainless steel
Common Applications
- Placement of retraction cord around the gingiva
- Tissue management for crown and bridge procedures
- Chairside restorative preparations
- Accurate impression-taking
Technical Specifications
Product Name: 113 Yardley, Non-Serrated, Double End
Brand: Hu-Friedy®
Design Number: 113
Tip Type: Yardley
Tip Texture: Smooth
Handle Type: 41 Round
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Smooth tips are perfect for gentle cord placement
- Comfortable handle allows for precise control
- Durable and maintains tip integrity
- A go-to tool for crown prep procedures
4. Balshi Packer Angled, Smooth, Double End

Product Description
The Balshi Packer Angled, Smooth, Double End is a specialized dental instrument designed for the precise placement of subgingival retraction cord. Its angled tip design allows for effective access to difficult-to-reach areas while maintaining patient comfort.
Product Overview
This double-ended cord packer features smooth, Balshi-style angled tips that provide excellent control for atraumatic cord placement. The standard handle offers a familiar grip, enhancing operator stability during crown and bridge preparation. Manufactured by Premier Dental Products, this tool is crafted from high-quality stainless steel for durability and reliability in daily clinical use.
Key Features
- Angled Balshi tips for effective subgingival access
- Smooth texture for atraumatic cord placement
- Double-ended for convenience and balance
- Standard handle for ergonomic and controlled use
- Made from premium stainless steel
Common Applications
- Placement of subgingival retraction cord
- Tissue retraction for crown and bridge procedures
- Chairside gingival management
- Preparation for accurate impression-taking
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Balshi Packer Angled, Smooth, Double End
Brand: Premier®
Tip Type: Balshi Angled
Tip Texture: Smooth
Handle Type: Standard
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Premier Dental Products
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Angled tips provide excellent access in tight areas
- Smooth surface protects tissue during placement
- Comfortable to use with good grip and control
- Durable tool that holds up well over time
5. Stark – Posterior/Anterior, Double End

Product Description
The Stark – Posterior/Anterior, Double End cord packer is a versatile dental instrument designed for precise and efficient placement of retraction cord in both anterior and posterior regions. It offers optimal control and comfort for clinicians, especially during the placement of braided or woven cords.
Product Overview
Crafted with a stainless steel core and soft silicone grip, this instrument ensures ergonomic handling while minimizing operator fatigue. The titanium nitrate-coated heads are enhanced with a GTX nonstick coating to prevent adhesion to cord fibers and tissue fluids. Its dual-ended design allows seamless access across the dental arch, making it a highly functional tool in restorative procedures.
Key Features
- Dual-ended for use in both anterior and posterior regions
- Titanium nitrate heads with GTX nonstick coating
- Ideal for packing woven or braided retraction cord
- Silicone grip provides comfort and tactile control
- Reduces sticking to cord and tissue for faster procedures
Common Applications
- Retraction cord placement in anterior and posterior areas
- Gingival tissue management for crown and bridge procedures
- Chairside use in restorative and prosthetic dentistry
- Accurate subgingival impression preparation
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Stark – Posterior/Anterior, Double End
Brand: Stark
Design Number: GTX
Handle Material: Stainless Steel with Silicone Grip
Tip Coating: Titanium Nitrate with GTX Nonstick Coating
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Gingi-Pak, Div. Of Belport
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Nonstick coating makes cord placement much easier
- Great grip and comfort with silicone handle
- Effective in tight anterior and posterior areas
- A favorite for woven cord applications
6. Circlet and Standard Packing Instrument

Product Description
The Circlet and Standard Packing Instrument is a double-ended dental tool designed for effective and comfortable gingival cord placement. Featuring both circlet and standard tip styles, this instrument offers versatility and precision in retraction procedures.
Product Overview
One end features a serrated circlet style with a silicone grip for improved tactile control and reduced hand fatigue, while the other end provides a traditional smooth packing tip. Manufactured by Pascal, the instrument is built for durability and can withstand autoclaving, chemical sterilization, ultrasonic cleaning, and cold sterilizing methods without compromising performance.
Key Features
- Double-ended with circlet and standard packing styles
- Serrated circlet tip enhances grip during cord placement
- Silicone grip improves comfort and reduces operator fatigue
- Fully sterilizable by all conventional methods
- Long-lasting and resistant to clinical wear
Common Applications
- Gingival retraction cord placement
- Tissue management for crown and bridge procedures
- Subgingival packing in anterior and posterior areas
- Chairside preparation for impressions
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Circlet and Standard Packing Instrument
Brand: Pascal
Design Number: PT-55
Tip Type: Circlet (serrated) and Standard
Handle Material: Silicone
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Pascal
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Comfortable and easy to handle
- Great for both delicate and firm packing techniques
- Reliable sterilization and long-lasting build
- Versatile tip design fits various clinical needs
7. Alabaster Gray – Off Angle

Product Description
The Alabaster Gray – Off Angle cord packer is a precision dental instrument designed for the effective placement of retraction cord within the gingival sulcus. Its angled design allows for improved access and control, making it ideal for subgingival procedures.
Product Overview
This double-ended instrument features stainless steel tips and a lightweight resin handle that ensures operator comfort during extended use. The off-angle design provides optimal reach in difficult-to-access areas, and the ergonomic construction helps minimize hand fatigue. Manufactured by PDT INC, this tool is built for reliability and clinical precision.
Key Features
- Off-angle design for enhanced access to the sulcus
- Double-ended for versatile cord placement
- Lightweight resin handle for ergonomic comfort
- Stainless steel tips for durability and control
- Ideal for subgingival tissue management
Common Applications
- Placement of retraction cord in the gingival sulcus
- Crown and bridge preparation procedures
- Subgingival access in anterior and posterior regions
- Chairside gingival tissue management
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Alabaster Gray – Off Angle
Brand: PDT®
Design Number: 113
Tip Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Resin
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: PDT INC
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Off-angle tip makes subgingival access easier
- Comfortable, lightweight handle reduces fatigue
- Excellent control during cord placement
- Durable and easy to clean
8. Straight Blades, Double End – Plain (Smooth)

Product Description
The Straight Blades, Double End – Plain (Smooth) cord packing instrument is designed for precise and atraumatic placement of retraction cord. With long, thin, straight blades and smooth tips, it allows clinicians to access even the tightest gingival sulcus with ease and accuracy.
Product Overview
Featuring mirror-image blades offset at 45°, this double-ended instrument adapts easily around any tooth for efficient cord packing. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and compatibility with all sterilization methods. Designed by Nordent Manufacturing Co., it is ideal for achieving consistent, reliable tissue retraction in restorative procedures.
Key Features
- Long (12 mm), straight blades for optimal reach and flexibility
- Mirror-image tips offset at 45° for better tooth adaptation
- Smooth tips prevent cord catching or shredding
- Double-ended for versatility and balance
- Stainless steel handle for durability and full sterilization compatibility
Common Applications
- Retraction cord placement in anterior and posterior teeth
- Tissue management prior to crown and bridge procedures
- Subgingival access in tight sulcus areas
- Chairside impression preparation
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Straight Blades, Double End – Plain (Smooth)
Brand: Nordent®
Design Number: N113
Tip Texture: Smooth
Handle Type: Standard
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Nordent Manufacturing Co.
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Thin tips are excellent for tight sulcus areas
- Smooth blades glide without catching cord
- Well-balanced and easy to control
- Durable and simple to sterilize
9. Gingi-Pak® Cord Packer # 1, Steel Handle

Product Description
The Gingi-Pak® Cord Packer #1 is a precision-crafted dental instrument designed for effective anterior or posterior gingival retraction. Constructed entirely from stainless steel, this double-ended tool is ideal for packing twisted or braided cord without piercing or fraying the material.
Product Overview
This cord packer features fine stainless steel tips that are engineered for interproximal cord placement and atraumatic gingival manipulation. The durable stainless steel handle offers solid control and is fully sterilizable. Manufactured by Gingi-Pak, this instrument ensures efficient and accurate placement of retraction material in a variety of clinical scenarios.
Key Features
- Designed to prevent packing through twisted cord
- Ideal for anterior and posterior retraction
- Stainless steel tips for durability and precision
- Double-ended for enhanced usability
- Fully autoclavable for repeated clinical use
Common Applications
- Interproximal gingival retraction cord placement
- Crown and bridge impression preparation
- Tissue management in anterior and posterior areas
- Packing of braided or twisted cords
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Gingi-Pak® Cord Packer #1, Steel Handle
Brand: Gingi-Pak®
Design Number: 1
Tip Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Gingi-Pak, Div. Of Belport
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Excellent for interproximal cord placement
- Strong grip and durable design
- Prevents damage to twisted cord
- Dependable tool for routine retraction work
10. Vista-Pak™ Standard Packer with Plain Tip

Product Description
The Vista-Pak™ Standard Packer with Plain Tip is a double-ended dental instrument specifically designed for the precise placement and compression of knitted retraction cords. Its slim profile allows for effective access to the gingival sulcus while minimizing tissue trauma.
Product Overview
Featuring smooth, plain tips on both ends, this packer is ideal for atraumatic cord packing. Its thin design enables clinicians to navigate tight interproximal and subgingival areas with ease. Manufactured by Vista Dental Products, the packer delivers consistent performance and is compatible with standard sterilization procedures.
Key Features
- Slim design for precise gingival access
- Smooth plain tips for atraumatic cord placement
- Ideal for compressing knitted retraction cords
- Double-ended for clinical flexibility
- Made from high-quality materials for durability
Common Applications
- Placement and compression of knitted retraction cords
- Tissue management prior to impressions
- Subgingival and interproximal cord packing
- Chairside crown and bridge preparation
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Vista-Pak™ Standard Packer with Plain Tip
Brand: Vista-Pak™
Tip Texture: Smooth
Number of Ends: Double
Manufacturer Name: Vista Dental Products
Package Quantity: 1 per package
Product Type: Gingival Cord Packer
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Easy to use in narrow sulcus areas
- Smooth tips reduce risk of tissue trauma
- Excellent for compressing knitted cords
- Lightweight and reliable for daily procedures