Dental viewing apparatus and method
US4790751A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 30, 1987 |
| Grant date | Dec 13, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 30, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61C1/088
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
To permit more effective viewing during dental surgery of diagnosis, a retractor or probe assembly includes: (1) a cylindrical stainless steel handle about 14 centimeters long and 7 millimeters in diameter to which a mirror may be mounted; and (2) a 15 millimeter long retractor or probe extending at right angles to the handle with openings in it for the passage of light and an opening near the retractor or probe for water and air. One end of the handle opposite to the retractor or probe receives an air hose, a water hose and a fiber optic bundle connected to a dental light source to supply air, water and/or light to the retractor or probe end of the handle. The retractor or probe assembly: (1) supplies light with sufficient intensity for transillumination or direct illumination of the dental root, pulp chamber, or other constricted areas in the oral cavity: and (2) in the case of a blade shaped retractor, is strong enough to permit insertion into and retraction of the gingival tissue or other oral soft tissue.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.