Final answer:
Retraction cord is used in dental procedures to push away the gum from the tooth for an accurate impression. It involves the use of dental instruments and can also contain astringents to manage bleeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Retraction cord is placed with a dental instrument specifically designed for this task in dental procedures. It is often used in the process of dental restorations or crown fabrication, where the cord is placed into the gingival sulcus around a tooth to gently push the gum away from the tooth. This allows the dentist to create a more accurate impression of the teeth and surrounding tissues for the creation of restorations or prosthetics.
Retraction cords typically contain astringents that help to control bleeding and constrict the gingival tissue, making the impression process easier and more precise. Medical professionals are trained in the proper placement and removal of retraction cord to prevent damage to the gingival tissues.