Retraction Cords: What They Are and Why Your Dentist Uses Them

The blue ring that the dentist uses between your teeth is known as a retraction cord.

It is made of an absorbent material like cotton and covered in blue dye, hence its name. Dentists place retraction cords around teeth before taking impressions or making molds for procedures like crowns, bridges, inlays/onlays, or fillings.