Dentra Extraction Forceps Fig 16 Lower Molars, Cow Horn Beak, American Pattern
Dentra Extraction Forceps Fig 16, Lower Molars, Cow Horn Beak, American Pattern
Dentra Fig 16 is an American pattern cow horn forceps for lower molars. It works on a different principle from every other forceps on the tray. Conventional patterns grip the crown and expand the socket. A cow horn does not grip the crown at all: two sharp curved beaks are driven into the furcation between the mesial and distal roots, and closing the handles levers the beaks against the interradicular bone, elevating the tooth out of its socket. That makes it the instrument of choice for a grossly broken down mandibular molar where there is no crown left to hold, and in dense mandibular bone where the self-elevating action does work an elevator would otherwise have to do.
What is included
| Item | Detail | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Dentra Fig 16 forceps | One cow horn extraction forceps for lower molars, American pattern, REF 60016 | NEW |
What is not included
| Item | Detail | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sterilisation | The instrument is supplied non-sterile | NOT INCLUDED |
| Other figure patterns | Forceps for other teeth and roots, including conventional lower molar patterns | SOLD SEPARATELY |
| Elevators and luxators | Instruments used before forceps application | SOLD SEPARATELY |
| Instrument tray or basket | Tray, wire basket and reprocessing consumables | SOLD SEPARATELY |
Case selection matters more with a cow horn than any other pattern
- A cow horn requires a genuine bifurcation between a mesial and a distal root. On a tooth with fused, conical or single roots there is nothing for the points to engage, and the beaks can split the crown instead.
- Radiographic assessment of root form and furcation position before use is what separates an efficient extraction from an avoidable complication.
- This instrument is supplied non-sterile. It must be decontaminated and sterilised in line with the receiving practice's decontamination policy before any clinical use, including before first use.
- For use by a suitably qualified dental professional. Extraction technique, case selection and instrument choice are clinical decisions.
- Inspect the beak points, the joint and the handle alignment before each use. The points are the working surface here, so a blunted or chipped tip takes the instrument out of service.
How the cow horn works
The two beaks converge like the horns the pattern is named after. They are seated into the furcation, driven deeper with controlled pressure, and then the handles are closed. Because the beaks are wedged against the bone between the roots rather than against the tooth, closing the handles pushes the tooth upward out of its socket. A pumping motion at the handle advances the wedge progressively until the tooth loosens.
The advantages follow from that mechanism. There is no dependence on crown integrity, which is exactly the situation a heavily carious or previously root treated molar presents. The wedging action often removes the need for separate elevation, and it can avoid surgical bone removal to create a point of application, which carries its own risks of infection, swelling and prolonged healing. Because force is applied between the roots rather than across the alveolus, alveolar bone tends to be better preserved, which matters when the site is destined for an implant or a denture.
The limitation is the same fact stated the other way round. No furcation means no purchase. Mandibular molars set in dense bone are where the instrument earns its place; fused-root teeth are where it should be set down in favour of a conventional pattern.
Key features
Specification
| Brand | Dentra |
| Product | Extraction forceps, Fig 16, cow horn |
| Reference | 60016 |
| Pattern | American |
| Indication | Lower molars with a genuine bifurcation, either side |
| Beak style | Cow horn, sharp converging points for furcation engagement |
| Mechanism | Wedge and elevate from the furcation |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Reprocessing | Reusable, steam sterilisable |
| Supplied | Non-sterile, single instrument |
| Intended user | Suitably qualified dental professionals |
| Condition | New |
Specification limited to what is confirmed
Overall length, beak dimensions, joint type and the exact steel grade are not stated here pending confirmation against the production record and material certificate, and should not be assumed from the description above. Other cow horn figures exist across the American and English ranges and are not offered under this reference. Ask before ordering if any of these details is needed.
Reprocessing and care
| Stage | Action |
|---|---|
| Before first use | Remove all packaging, decontaminate and sterilise |
| Point of use | Rinse promptly so blood and debris do not dry into the beak points and the joint |
| Cleaning | Process per the practice decontamination policy, with the joint opened fully so the hinge is reached |
| Inspection | Check the beak points closely for bluntness, chipping and splay, since the points are the working surface |
| Lubrication | Apply instrument lubricant to the joint where the local policy requires it |
| Sterilisation | Steam sterilise per the validated cycle for the load, with the instrument in the open position |
| Storage | Store dry and protected, keeping the beak points clear of contact with other instruments |
| Withdrawal | Remove from service on any sign of corrosion, cracking, blunted or misaligned points or a slack joint |
The above is general guidance. The practice decontamination policy and current national guidance on decontamination in primary care dental practices take precedence.
Dentra range
Dentra is the dental instrument range from Elarix Medical. Extraction forceps are supplied by figure number across the English and American patterns, alongside orthodontic pliers and cutters and prosthodontic measuring instruments. Every item is individually referenced and barcoded, so a repeat order is placed against a code rather than a description.
