Six Vintage Stainless Steel Dental Impression Trays — Antique Dentistry, Assemblage Art

A fascinating and tactile set of six vintage stainless steel dental impression trays — the instruments used by dentists to take precise impressions of a patient's teeth for the manufacture of dentures, crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. Each tray has its own distinctive form, shaped to fit different areas of the mouth, and several retain traces of plaster of Paris from their working life — a pleasing reminder of their original purpose. A compelling piece of dental and medical history.

Condition

• Overall: Reasonable condition for age.
• Material: Stainless steel.
• Tarnishing: Some tarnishing of the stainless steel in places.
• Residue: Remnants of plaster of Paris present on some trays — adds to the authenticity and character.

Provenance

• Type: Dental impression trays — standardised stainless steel instruments used in dentistry from the late 19th century onwards to take alginate or plaster impressions of the teeth and gums. The impressions were used as the basis for fabricating dentures, crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. Different tray shapes correspond to upper and lower arches and different mouth sizes.
• Material: Stainless steel — the standard material for dental instruments from the early 20th century, chosen for its corrosion resistance and ability to be sterilised.
• Era: Mid-to-late 20th century.
• Appeal: A set of six gives a pleasing variety of forms — these are striking objects with strong sculptural qualities, popular with assemblage artists, prop buyers, collectors of medical and dental ephemera, and anyone drawn to the aesthetics of vintage professional instruments.