The following 5 listings were found:
Complete Dentures
Upper and lower complete dentures, composed of Vulcanite (vulcanized rubber) and metal bases and porcelain teeth. The dentures are mounted on a semi-adjustable articulator. The articulator was made in the United States of America of a design patented in October 1919 by Wadsworth. The posterior teeth are interesting because they were designed by Dr. Felix French of Ottawa, Canada, early in the twentieth century, to facilitate the development of a lingualized occlusion with freedom of lateral movement. Donated by, then Faculty Member, Dr. Oskar Sykora (and probably made by him in mid twentieth century as a demonstration.) DUDM 2022- 00040.
Copper Band Matrix
A matrix, or mould is required when filling the void created when tooth structure is lost due to caries affecting the proximal surfaces of molars and bicuspids. Copper bands in assorted sizes became popular in North America in the 1940 – 60’s. Technique sensitive, they required measurement, cutting to fit the tooth at the gumline, annealing in an alcohol flame at chairside, replacement on the tooth and burnishing to give tight contact with the adjacent tooth. To keep the band tight against the cavity to be filled, small pre-formed wooden wedges were placed in the interproximal space. Silver amalgam, used since the 1860’s, was the most common filling material. The freshly mixed amalgam was applied to the cavity preparation in putty form and condensed using hand instruments. It set in minutes and the wooden wedge and copper band were removed. The filling was shaped to resemble the natural contours of the tooth and to properly contact teeth in the opposing arch, thereby replacing form and function.
Copper bands were also used to carry and confine impression material to prepared tooth surfaces to obtain impressions (negative replicas) of the preparations. Thermoplastic or elastomeric materials would be carried in a softened state in the adapted copper bands and allowed to set (harden) in place, thus recording the details of the tooth preparation.
Side story: During WW2, Army field dentists often faced shortages of proper materials. One Canadian dentist veteran recounted knowing which rifle shell casings approximated the diameters of which teeth. The shell, once selected, would have the bullet removed, powder disposed of, and casing cut and annealed to use as the impromptu matrix band.
DUDM 2022-00045.
H.A. Garmers Cotton Roll Holder
Patented 1932 (Canada 323186).
When dental fillings are placed, a dry area is necessary for proper setting of the dental materials. Absorbent cotton rolls were often used to keep the area dry. With local anesthesia in the patient's tongue and cheek, the cotton rolls tended to dislodge. The small upper arms of the holder would hold the rolls in place with aid of the spoon shaped piece under the chin. DUDM 2019.00005
Dr. Herman A. Garmers was a dentist / innovator who practiced in Minneapolis from the 1920s to 1960s. After a minor fender-bender in the late 1920's between Dr. Garmers and Mr. J.P. Boker in a University of Minnesota parking lot, the two exchanged business cards. When they later met to settle damages, Dr. Garmers discussed this invention and his search for a manufacturer. Coincidentally, Mr. Boker operated a custom metal stamping facility, producing parts for industry. Boker’s became that manufacturer, resulting in an 82 year connection with Dr. Garmers and this device.
Hu-Friedy Molt Mouth Prop
Dental mouth props are a tool in dentistry, serving to enhance the quality of care while ensuring patient comfort and safety, particularly in the paediatric or sedated patient. They play a role in preventing mouth fatigue during extended procedures and reducing the risk of accidental closure, which can lead to trauma or contamination of the treatment area. Historical records trace the use of mouth gags back to the late 1500s, with notable developments such as a screw-like device for treating trismus. This is an example of the Hu-Friedy's Immunity Steel line, introduced in 1978. DUDM 2022-00029
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