Abstract: A method and apparatus for controllably dispensing a fluid substance on a repetitive, variable basis utilize a piston-cylinder type handheld finger operated dispenser. The dispenser includes a generally cylindrical body for containing a supply of the fluid substance to be dispensed, a formed tip through which the fluid substance may be dispensed, a piston and a piston rod for use in dispensing the fluid substance from the cylinder and a formed gouge or actuator for initiating movement of the piston rod to dispense the fluid substance in amounts controlled by the skill and desire of the user. The actuator is formed from a harder material than the material used to form the piston rod so that gouges or teeth are formed by the actuator during usage along the length of the piston rod, the spacing between adjacent teeth being variably selected by the user. A specific application of the dispenser is for use in dispensing topical dental medicine by a user in his own oral cavity.

Abstract: A pilot light arrangement for a hand-held appliance such as a curling and styling iron is disclosed, wherein the arrangement facilitates convenient visual inspection to see if the appliance is operating. The arrangement includes a pilot light mounted within a housing portion of the appliance, and a fiber optic bundle which extends through a swivel cord mount of the appliance. The fiber optic bundle is positioned in light-transmitting relation with the pilot light, with the end of the fiber optic bundle positioned at the exterior of the appliance being readily visible irrespective of the orientation of the swivel cord mount with respect to the appliance housing.