Figure 5-43. - Hawkbill-type forceps used on mandibular teeth.

Figure 5-44. - Forceps #101.

Figure 5-45. - Pediatric Forceps #150S and 151S.

patient's chin. As an assistant, you must anticipate the dentist's needs and be ready when signaled by the dentist to pass the next instrument and receive the used one in a smooth motion.

Double-handled instruments, such as scissors, hemostats, and forceps, along with single-ended instruments with bulb-type handles, such as elevators, are transferred somewhat differently as discussed in previous chapters. As figures 5-46 and 5-47 illustrate, when passing these types of instruments, grasp the working end and place the handle into the palm of the dentist's hand. The working end of the passed instrument should be pointed toward the correct arch. When the dentist finishes with the instrument, you will receive the instrument by grasping the working end.

SURGICAL AIR DRILL

Many different makes and models of surgical air drills are used in oral surgery. A common surgical air drill used in the Navy is shown in figure 5-48. It is a high-speed hand piece used in oral surgery procedures to remove bone and section teeth. The drill enables the dentist to accomplish these procedures quickly and reduces the trauma to oral tissues. It operates by a hand control lever while other makes and models operate by a foot pedal.

Bur guards (fig. 5-49) are used with the air drill. Surgical burs are then inserted into the drill after the bur guard is in place. Bur guards are available in three lengths: medium, long, and extra long. They are designed to protect the dentist and the patient from the long shaft of the burs. Selection of a bur guard is directly dependent on the length of the bur to be used.