Treadle operated drill, London, England, 1925-1940
Dental drills are used by dentists to remove decaying tooth matter, usually before inserting a filling. Powered by a foot pedal, this type of dental drill (in the foreground) was invented by James B Morrison (1829-1917) in 1871, although this one was made rather later. This example was made by the Amalgamated Dental Co. Ltd. It is shown here within a display about dentists in the 1890s.
Object number:
1978-308
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: dentistry
The study, treatment and management of diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, gums, teeth and their supporting tissues.
Glossary: dental drill
A rotary power-driven instrument into which cutting points may be inserted. Used to remove decay from teeth.