Some early dental extraction instruments including the pelican, bird or axe?

Abstract

This paper is the result of the cataloguing, preparation for exhibition and the study of some early dental extraction instruments. The artefacts included elevators, pelicans, keys, forceps and pincers produced by unidentified makers or known firms. An evolutionary process is demonstrated from the simplest instrument leading to those used today. The naming of the artefacts follows a path relating to their method of use and to their appearance in regard to common everyday objects and animals or their parts. All were found to exhibit this association except the pelican which did not fit its long held position.