2. Small diameter retraction cord, after it has been hydrated with Hemodent (hemostatic agent) for 10 minutes, is tucked around the tooth in the space between it and its surrounding gum tissue. A second larger diameter retraction cord, also hydrated with Hemodent, will be placed over the first cord and tucked around the tooth. These cords will be left in place for a minimum of 8 minutes. These cords temporarily push the gum tissue away from the tooth.