Local Fabrication of a Modified Dental Crown Flask and Clamp (Portex Flask) for Dental Technology Practice
Abstract:
Background: This research aimed to develop a locally fabricated dental crown flask and clamp as an alternative to expensive imported options. The project was conducted at the Centre for Industrial Studies workshop II at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, between August and October 2018. The goal was to produce a modified dental crown flask and clamp using affordable metallic materials.
Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed to fabricate the flask and clamp using aluminum, mild steel, and copper. The imported flask and clamp served as the control group. Aluminum was used for the clamp base, copper pipes for the two rods, mild steel for the screws, and copper for the top brackets.
Results: The study demonstrated the feasibility of fabricating dental instruments using locally sourced metallic materials. The modified flask and clamp were successfully produced within the university community. The fabricated instrument was used to fabricate acrylic jacket crowns, proving its viability for the intended purpose.
Conclusion and Implications: The successful local production of the dental crown flask and clamp offers a more affordable and accessible option for dental professionals. This development can contribute to reducing dependence on imported dental equipment and promoting self-sufficiency in the dental technology industry
