Model of a foot operated drill, Germany, 1910-1920
This model represents a dental drill which is powered by pushing the foot pedal up and down. This is known as a treadle drill. The dental drill is used to remove decayed matter from the teeth, which can become infected and painful if left untreated. The treadle drill was invented in 1871 by James Beall Morrison (1829-1917), an American dentist who also designed dental chairs. His drill was popular with dentists throughout Europe and America and is an example of the first mechanically powered drill, which speeded up dental treatments.
Object number:
A600136
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: treadle drill
No description.
Glossary: model - representation
Use for a scaled representation of an object or structure, usually three-dimensional. The item is often idealised or modified to make it conceptually easier to understand.
Glossary: tooth cavity
Holes in the two outer layers of a tooth called the enamel and the dentin. Small cavities may not cause pain, and may be unnoticed by the patient. Larger cavities can collect food, and the inner pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by bacterial toxins, foods that are cold, hot, sour, or sweet causing toothache. Also referred to as caries.
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.