Abstract: A gingival retraction cord is constructed from two or more strands that are formed into a plurality of interlocking loops so as to form a knitted retraction cord. At least one strand is made from an absorbent material and another strand is made from a degradation-resistant material such as nylon or polyester. The absorbent strands are impregnated with a hemostatic agent. The degradation-resistant strands resist degradation by the hemostatic agent. Because the strands are part of the knit, the retraction cord is compressible and resilient in the longitudinal and transverse dimensions. Alternatively, one or more strands are used to make the knit and each strand is made from two or more different fibers. For example, one or more absorbent fibers and one or more synthetic fibers can be twisted to make a blended strand. The blended strands can then be used to knit a retraction cord.