Abstract: A coupling assembly for removably coupling a die and base of a dental model includes a sleeve configured to slidably receive a pin, which is fixedly mounted to the inner surface of the die. The sleeve has at least one slot extending through the body thereof and configured to receive and retain base material molding around the sleeve so as to have the sleeve and base displaceably fixed to one another during repeated couplings of the die to the base.

Abstract: An endodontic instrument is described which includes a handle from which extends an endo blade. The handle includes an elongated sleeve member formed of resilient material which surrounds a core member secured within the sleeve member. The core member has a longitudinal body portion radially spaced from the inner walls of the sleeve to define therebetween a flexure space for accommodating the deformation of the sleeve member upon gripping of the handle during use of the instrument. Preferably, the sleeve member is provided with gripping ribs thereon.