Abstract: An endodontic device for instrumenting a root canal includes an elongated wire, a handle at one end of the wire, and one or more movable stops extending a portion of the wire and abutting on the handle. The length of the portion of the wire which protrudes from the stop(s) constitutes the working length for the root canal treatment. The working length is maintained the same during the treatment, since the stopping means is sandwiched by two stiff objects, namely, the tooth being treated and the rigid object. Also disclosed are (1) a set of movable stops of specific thicknesses for precisely setting a range of working lengths, and (2) a container for storing the set.

Abstract: This invention provides a compact and convenient dental tool container which is particularly useful for storing dental posts, post wrenches and reamers, and stops for reamers, plus a gauge, coordinating several of a dentist's requirements in a helpful way. A handheld circular tool holder has a number of peripheral compartments for the tools and a selector lid rotatable on the tool holder which selector lid has an opening to access the peripheral compartments. Optionally, a secondary compartment and access opening in the lid provide storage for the post wrenches. A novel breakaway tab locks the lid closed for distribution and marketing, and preferably engages in a unique gauge block for sizing the reamers; alternatively an indexing ratchet restricts rotation of the lid. The invention includes a kit comprising the container charged with the several tools described.

Abstract: An improved applicator for applying a topical anesthetic to a patient's mucosal tissue is disclosed, and includes a sponge-like dispenser member characterized by a relatively large surface area. The dispenser member is attached to an elongated handle. A predetermined quantity of the topical anesthetic is preapplied to the applicator member. A number of the applicators are stored in a refillable dispenser apparatus, wherein a refill dispenser housing defines a number of applicator wells, each for receiving one of the applicators. The handles of the applicators can be color-coded to indicate the flavor of the topical anesthetic which has been preapplied to the applicator.

Abstract: An autoclavable container for drill bits and/or burs comprising a narrow rectangular block having vertical orifices extending partially downwardly from its upper face, and a U-shaped cover having a pair of legs extending downwardly from a transverse member to slidably encompass the end walls of the block and a pair of orifices side shields extending downwardly from the transverse member and spaced apart from each other to house the heads of the drill bits and/or burs extending upwardly from the block orifices, each of the end walls of the block having a boss or projection, and each of the inner walls of the legs having a pair of interconnected recesses adopted to receive the boss or projection in the end wall of the block so that the block may be moved from a first upper position secured within the cover, to a second lower position at which it may be pivoted outwardly to a third position providing access to the block orifices for insertion or removal of the burs or drill bits.

Abstract: A dental burr storage system for storing of dental burrs in a polymer, such as a polysulfone structure for storage as well as for sterilization. With the concern over AIDS, patients are now requiring dentists to store their personal dental burrs in their own storage container. The container provides for storage of the dental burrs, as well as sterilization of the dental burrs. The storage system includes a dental burr base and a dental burr cap, which threads onto the base in either a storage position for the dental burrs or a support position for the dental burrs. The base includes a plurality of holes on a cylindrical member for passage of gases during sterilization procedures. A threaded cap also includes a plurality of holes for passage of gases during a sterilization procedure.

Abstract: A package for unitizing and shipping pipette tips is provided and includes a paperboard tray received on the side panels of an outer shipping enclosure, which panels support the tray over a cavity into which the pipette tips extend. The tray includes two spaced, substantially parallel panels, each having an array of holes; the arrays are aligned. One of the parallel panels is preferably joined to the tray along perforated, cut fold lines, whereby that panel easily may be broken away from the tray when the tray is placed on a pipette support block. The invention also encompasses flat blanks, one for the tray and one for the shipping enclosure, for forming into the package.

Abstract: A sterilizing device which is specifically adaptable for use with tonometer tips of the removable type comprises a container for a disinfectant solution and has with an upper edge in surrounding relation to an opening into the interior thereof. A lid is disposed on the upper edge of the container with a plurality of spaced tip-supporting openings which releasably support one of the tonometer tips for downward extension from the lid into the solution in the container.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a case (10) serving to receive tools for oral and dental care and including an interior space (14). A removable insert (16) having a number of compartments (18) is adapted to be fitted into the interior space (14). An element (20) is pivotal about a pivot axis (32) from a dust-guard position (22) to an open position (24). The element (20) is configured as a substantially plane case lid covering the interior space (14) in the dust-guard position (22). The element (20) and the insert (16) are in relative connection by means of a lever mechanism (30), with the lever mechanism (30) convertinig a pivoting motion of the element (20) into a lifting motion of the insert (16).

Abstract: A dental burr holder includes an elongated burr block defining a cylindrical lateral base and a plurality of upwardly extending generally cylindrical bore supports molded in a single unit. The burr supports each define respective bores extending downwardly therein configured to receive a plurality of dental burrs. A generally U-shaped burr cover is formed of a resilient material and defines a pair of inwardly extending faceted bosses at the lower ends of each of the burr cover end pieces. The cylindrical base of the burr block defines corresponding faceted recesses which receive the faceted bosses to provide a detented attachment between the burr block cover and the burr block. The relative position between the burr block cover and the burr block may be varied by detented rotation therebetween.

Abstract: A dental instrument mat includes a base portion having two opposite sides and two opposite ends and a pair of racks formed longitudinally along the two opposite sides. Each rack has a plurality of spaced apart teeth, and the teeth of each rack are laterally aligned with teeth of the other rack to form a plurality of laterally disposed holding slots. An elastic band is looped over protrusions formed at the opposite axial ends of the base portion so as to place the elastic band in tension and thereby hold dental instruments in the holding slots during autoclaving.

Abstract: A hypodermic needle and sharp instruments tray protector is utilized in adhesive or tab-in-slot or snap-in engagement with an upper surface of a surgical tray. The protector defines a sleeve with a forward open end and an aperture directed through a top wall of the sleeve for receiving a cap of a hypodermic needle. The cap is temporarily positioned within the aperture and the needle and sharp instruments directed within the sleeve for preventing inadvertent puncture of an individual during a surgical procedure.

Abstract: A mixing device for molding compositions for use in dentistry has a housing into which and from which a trough plate and the underlying tray can be displaced like a drawer. A mat of bibulous material substantially completely fills the tray beneath the trough plate and delivers water in a controlled manner through passages traversing the trough plate and leading to the troughs. A vessel containing the moisturizing liquid is placed on the housing and is connected by a conduit with the tray, the conduit including a valve for controlling flow to the tray.

Abstract: A multicompartment box for storing and dispensing sets of small parts such as orthodontic brackets. The box has a vacuum-formed base with cavity-like depressions for receiving the parts, and a transparent lid is slidably mounted on the base to cover and uncover the parts. The base defines button-like buttons or projections which fit into mating lid grooves arranged to retain the lid on the box, and to releasably secure the lid in the closed position.

Abstract: A cassette for sterilization and storage of instruments, incorporating improved instrument-locating and retaining means and improved hinge and latch mechanisms. The cassette is fabricated of metallic materials having superior heat resistance, and is designed to be stored in stacked relationship with other such cassettes.

Abstract: A disposable dental tray includes a disposable tray body defining four utility compartments. Three of the utility compartments are disposed along a first side of the tray body, the fourth utility compartment being disposed along a second side of the tray body. All four of the utility compartments have relatively flat bases and are defined by integrally formed ridges extending upwardly from the compartment bases. Each compartment is surrounded by a defining ridge, interior defining ridges being offset from each other so that no interior ridge extends completely across the tray. The tray body further includes an instrument compartment defined by an encircling ridge extending upwardly from the base of the instrument compartment. The instrument compartment has integrally formed therein a series of grooves for holding dental instruments, which grooves are elevated above the base of the instrument compartment.

Abstract: Portable kits for the treatment of dental problems by persons untrained in dentistry have the instruments, medicaments and other articles required to treat specified problems carried in a tray having covered recesses sized and shaped to receive them. Step-by-step instructions for treting the problems are secured on the inner surface of a lid covering the tray so that when the lid is opened, the instructions are in view. Each item on the tray is uniquely identified, such as by letter or number, and the instructions refer to them by such indicia to avoid error. In addition, the instructions and covers for the recesses are suitably color coded to simplify following instructions. Four kits, each designed for treatment of a number of designated dental problems, are described. The kits enable emergency treatment of dental problems when travelling or when professional dental care is unavailable.

Abstract: A stack of improved bracket table cover sheets for use by dentists is disclosed. The sheets have ridges throughout their peripheries. The outer edges of the ridges extend downwardly. The ridges are designed to fit snugly over the peripheral ledges of the bracket table or of a separate backing designed to be positioned on the bracket table. Preferably, one of the raised edges is provided with an integral flap. The improved bracket table cover sheet of the stack comprises a paper component and a water and organic solvent impervious component. In one form, the impervious component is wax that impregnates the paper component. In another form the impervious component is a polymeric coating. Each bracket table cover sheet of the stack is characterized by a drape, hand, and feel that permits it to be easily folded and wrapped into a disposable pack.

Abstract: A dental impression kit to assist the dentist or a dental technician in the making of dental impressions preparatory to the formation of a mold and the manufacture of a crown or full or partial dentures. The kit contains a compact and orderly arranged array of items necessary or desirable in formation of dental impression. Such items include a selection of upper and lower dental impression trays, dental impression material base and catalyst, adhesive, polish, instructions and a mixing pad. From the kit, the dentist is able to select the appropriate type and size of impression tray, mix the impression base and material on a mixing pad, prepare the tray with the adhesive and then fill it with the impression material and take the dental impression, all the while having instructions at hand if necessary. The finished dentures can be polished using the polish kit. Secondary inventory control cases complement the primary case by making inventory available as items from the primary case are depleted.

Abstract: A sheath is provided which prevents the dental camera itself from coming into contact with the patient, while allowing the dental camera to function properly. Such sheaths are dispensed on a perforated role, either end to end, or side to side. Alternatively, each sheath is individually packaged in a tear away casing, allowing the sheath to remain sterile, yet being readily accessible for use.

Abstract: This packing case comprises a support provided with a plurality of separate parallel cavities adapted to receive the dental canal instruments and a protection cover consisting of a self-adhesive sheet. This sheet of thin transparent and flexible material has a gripping edge parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavities and this edge projects laterally from the support surface. By raising the sheet by means of the gripping edge the user can uncover the cavities one by one and thus pick up a selected instrument by simply turning the case upside down, the other instrument being retained in the case. With this packing case it is possible to pack various types of dental instruments such as files, reamers, drills, Hedstroem files, nerve broaches, etc., and the cover may also be used as a label carrying inscriptions concerning the type of dental instrument contained in the case.

Abstract: A package structure supports and protects a plurality of microdrills, the microdrills being resiliently mounted such that the delicate drill bodies are located spaced from one another and spaced from their support in a contact-free manner in order to eliminate or minimize breakage during transport and handling.

Abstract: A multiple compartment, self sanitizing, tooth brush holder wherein separate liquid containing compartments receive individual tooth brushes while the entire device is wall mounted or free standing. The receptacle is provided with a hinged lid which opens to the entire interior of the receptacle but which, when closed, allows some access to the interior of the receptacle. A clear impact resistant plastic is preferred for construction.

Abstract: A tray and basin combination particularly useful for soaking medical implements, such as urological instruments, in a treatment solution. In use, the tray is self-elevating within the basin; however, a magnetic retainer is provided for selectively holding the tray in a lowered condition, with the articles supported thereby immersed in the treatment solution, until the treatment is completed and the tray is to be raised.

Abstract: A package for articles is particularly suitable for small dental tools and fittings.The package includes a base member and a rotary member mounted for rotation relative to the base member.A circular space for the articles is defined between the base member and the rotary member and the space is divided into radial compartments arranged to receive the articles.The base member also defines a chute leading to a pocket, the chute communicating with the compartments for dispensing the articles upon rotation of the rotary member.The rotary member is transparent for viewing the articles in the compartments and the rotary member is indexable to ensure retention and release of articles from the compartments.

Abstract: A portable dispenser and container apparatus for dental supplies and tools is disclosed. The apparatus includes an elongated multicompartmented container having spaced transverse partitions which define a plurality of frontally open compartments for dental supplies and instruments. A horizontal top wall for the interior group of compartments is provided with a multiplicity of openings of various diameters for receiving the shanks of dental burs or other rod-like dental instruments. The end compartments are open at the top to provide easy access to various longer instruments and supplies as well as jars of dental treatment liquids. A hinged door is mounted over the opening to one of the compartments, the door serving to house a dental supply dispenser such as a cotton pellet dispenser. The apparatus may be semipermanently mounted on a dental office tray if desired. The present apparatus provides quick and convenient access to a wide variety of dental instruments and equipment.

Abstract: A package is provided for the marketing and distribution of dental drills, and the like, in which each drill is supported in an upright position in a base, within a rigid casing, and spaced from the walls and top of the casing. The base and casing may be formed of appropriate plastic materials, and the casing may be transparent. A number of like packages may be detachably attached to one another at the edge of their bases in side-by-side relationship, and contained in an open-ended carton. To remove a drill, the package containing the drill is pushed out one end of the carton, and it is detached from the other packages within the carton. The casing is then pulled off the base to expose the drill, and to permit it to be removed.

Abstract: A dental burr holder comprising a holder body adapted to rest on a support and having a smooth, upper surface interrupted by a plurality of upwardly opening burr receiving apertures, and a member projecting generally upwardly from the holder body and having a smooth front surface which faces across the upper surface of the holder body. These two surfaces form a background which color contrasts with the burrs and against which the burrs are viewed. The background is continuously color contrasting and is substantially visually uninterrupted except for the burr receiving apertures. This structure allows quick and accurate selection of the desired burr silhouetted against the contrasting background, and also makes the problem of detecting damaged or imperfect burrs easier. With dark colored burrs, a white background is preferred.

Abstract: A novel dental kit is provided which contains all of the necessary implements, instruments, medicaments and supplies for performing root canal therapy. The kit comprises a housing having a pair of spaced rails for supporting a plurality of hand held dental instruments in an openly accessible position. In addition, a plurality of holder assemblies are mounted to the housing and each holder assembly contains a single type of tooth working implements and maintains them in an openly accessible position. Preferably two reservoirs are formed in the housing, one for holding a sterile liquid, such as alcohol and the other for holding an irrigatory fluid. A pump is also mounted to the housing for pumping the sterile fluid to either an accessory or a main well.

Abstract: The present invention provides a case-like container having plastic walls, for keeping items used in dental hygiene in which a substantial portion of the container is in the form of a beaker around which there is disposed a folded toothbrush within walls that can at least be partially torn off.

Abstract: An open-top container receives a dental tool support in the form of an open-bottom cylinder provided with threads around its upper and lower ends engageable with internal threads at the upper end of the container so that the support may be held by the container in either an upper or lower position. A cap threadedly engages the tool support to seal the assembly when the support is in its lower position.

Abstract: A root canal treatment kit includes a lower plastic tray of polystyrene formed with recesses for accommodating root canal treatment apparatus and materials formed with an outermost lip for supporting a transparent cover and an inner lip adjacent the outermost lip upon which legs of an upper plastic tray rest. The upper plastic tray is also formed with recesses for accommodating apparatus and material installing rubber dams in connection with root canal treatment above apparatus on the lower tray. The transparent cover encloses both trays and the root canal treatment apparatus and material stored in the recesses. The rubber dams are installed, then the upper tray is removed, and then the materials and apparatus on the lower tray are used to complete the root canal treatment.

Abstract: A container for dental equipment is equipped with six minitrays (2 to 7), which can be removed and sterilized individually, each of which comprises a handle (8) on its upper side and legs (9) on its underside. A minitray (2) is provided with elongated recesses (a to f), three similarly constructed minitrays (3 to 5) are provided with holes (9) for receiving root canal instruments and two further minitrays (6, 7) are provided with larger holes (h, k) for receiving glass tubes for holding treatment material. The four minitrays (2 to 5) have substantially the same dimensions, whereas the two latter minitrays (6, 7) are half as wide as the other minitrays.

Abstract: A stand for instruments of metal for use in the field of medicine, particularly odontology, comprising a body composed of a large number of sheets of a liquid impregnatable paper material. The sheets are arranged vertically close together so that the instruments are insertable by their operating ends between the sheets to be retained there during the sterilizing process and are thus stored easily accessible for subsequent clinical work. The sheets of paper are impregnated with a corrosion inhibitor to protect the instruments at least during a sterilizing process.

Abstract: A hollow dental tool holder block formed of a thermoplastic base including small diameter holes at spaced positions to receive inserted ends of rod-like dental burs, endodontic files or the like. The block bears a rectangular recess to one side holding a removable, partitioned, open-top tray nested to the block recess. The tray holds paper, cotton products and may be removed from the block when the metal tools borne by the block are submerged within a cleaning solution and treated to ultrasonic vibration, and then reinserted in order to sterilize the entire set of instruments and cotton-paper products.

Abstract: Sterilizing apparatus and method for dental and surgical tools. A main sterilizing chamber is provided with a cover having heating means and capsule-supporting means, which may comprise a plurality of removable trays, each one of which has a capsule-supporting basket. A plurality of tool-holding capsules are removably mounted in the capsule-supporting means and a normally solid petroleum product that is liquid at sterilizing temperatures surrounds and covers the capsules. The same kind of material is within each capsule in contact with the tool. The capsules are hermetically sealed by removable closures, and they include a tool-support structure inside. The tools are placed in the capsules and the capsules into the container, usually by means of the trays and basket, and then the sterilizer is heated for the necessary time at the necessary temperature to obtain sterilization, the heat acting through the medium of the normally solid petroleum product.

Abstract: A package for dental root canal instruments comprises a rectangular base plate of stamped metal having integral resilient protuberances along a marginal edge defining housings for gripping the handles of the instruments, a part of the handle protruding beyond said marginal edge. A cover with U-section slides is slidably mounted on the base plate to cover the instruments and enclose the protruding handles.

Abstract: A container for dental instruments has a thin plate provided with a plurality of pairs of opposed recesses disposed in two parallel rows in a major surface of the plate. A plurality of channels connect the two recesses in each of the pairs of recesses. Dental instruments are received by the pairs of recesses and their interconnecting channels and are covered by a cover secured to the surface of the plate having the recesses. A plurality of containers may be stacked and held together by a clamp for ease of shipping or storage.