Dental matrix retainer clamp

Abstract

A disposable dental matrix retainer clamp for holding a matrix band, is disclosed. The retainer clamp comprises a main body element having a generally centrally located first longitudinal axis and first and second opposed lateral sides. A head element having a first end, a second end, a generally centrally located second longitudinal axis extending from the first end to the second end, an anterior surface having a guide slot centrally located therein through which the matrix band extends, and a pivot axis perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis is pivotally mounted on the main body element by way of a pair of oppositely directed mounting posts received in co-operating apertures that are located one each in respective opposed flange members extending outwardly from the main body element between a first locked position, a second locked position, and an intermediate position therebetween. First and second locking means in the form of detent portions on the main body element interact in an interference relation with cooperating protruding portions on the first and second ends of the head element, the first and second locking means thereby being adapted to lock the head element in a first or second locked position respectively. The mounting posts are each engaged in loosely held relation in the co-operating apertures so as to allow lateral movement of the mounting posts with respect to the main body element, to thereby accommodate the interference fit between the first and second ends and the respective of the first and second detent portions.