Extraction forceps are usually identified by a pattern and a figure number, written as “Fig.” followed by a number. The number tells you which teeth the forceps are designed for, and the pattern tells you which design tradition it follows. Once you know how the system works, a catalogue code becomes much easier to read.
This guide explains the two main numbering traditions, how upper, lower, left, right and paediatric variants are identified, and how to read a typical catalogue entry.
Why forceps have figure numbers
Teeth differ in crown shape, root number and position in the mouth, so forceps are made with different beak shapes, handle angles and joint designs. Rather than describe each design in full, manufacturers and dealers use a short figure number. A clinician who orders a “Fig.1” or a “Fig.150” expects a particular shape, whichever maker supplies it.
Figure numbers are a trade convention rather than a single formal standard. Most patterns are widely shared, but details can vary slightly between makers, so the description and photograph should always be checked alongside the number.
English pattern and American pattern
There are two broad families of extraction forceps.
English pattern
English pattern forceps generally have a box-type joint with the handles hinged in the same plane as the beaks. They are typically made for a specific tooth group and, in some cases, for one side of the mouth. Common English pattern numbers include:
- Fig.1: upper incisors and canines. A straight design.
- Fig.2: upper premolars.
- Fig.17 and Fig.18: upper molars, made as a left and right pair. One beak is pointed to engage the buccal root bifurcation, so each instrument suits one side.
American pattern
American pattern forceps generally have a hinge joint with the handles set at an angle to the beaks. Many are “universal” designs, meaning one instrument can be used on both the left and right sides of the same arch. Examples include:
- Fig.150: upper universal forceps for incisors, premolars and roots, often called the Cryer pattern.
- Fig.151: the lower counterpart of Fig.150, for lower incisors, premolars and roots.
- Fig.23: the “cowhorn” lower molar forceps. Its two sharply pointed, curved beaks are placed into the bifurcation of a lower molar.
- Fig.65: upper incisors and root tips.
- Fig.69: upper and lower roots, a fine-beaked root forceps.
Note that the same number can mean different instruments in different patterns. An English pattern number and an American pattern number are not interchangeable, so always read the pattern as well as the figure.
Upper versus lower forceps
You can usually tell upper from lower forceps by their shape, even before checking the number.
- Upper (maxillary) forceps tend to have beaks in line with, or slightly curved from, the handles. Upper molar forceps often have a bayonet or S-shaped profile so the hand stays clear of the lower teeth.
- Lower (mandibular) forceps have beaks set at roughly a right angle to the handles, so they can reach down onto the lower teeth.
Catalogue names normally state “upper” or “lower” in full, which is the safest guide.
Left, right and universal designs
Molar forceps with one pointed beak must sit on the buccal side of the tooth, which means a separate instrument is needed for each side of the mouth. These are sold as pairs, such as Fig.17 and Fig.18. Catalogues may mark them with “L” and “R” or with the words “left” and “right”.
Universal forceps have symmetrical beaks and can be used on either side. Fig.150 and Fig.151 are the best-known examples. Universal designs reduce the number of instruments needed in a basic set, while side-specific designs can give a more precise grip on molars.
Paediatric forceps
Forceps for deciduous (milk) teeth follow the same principles but are smaller, with narrower beaks and shorter handles suited to children’s mouths and smaller hands. They are usually listed as “children’s” or “paediatric” forceps, sometimes with their own figure numbers.
How to read a catalogue code
A typical product name packs several pieces of information into one line. Take this example:
Upper Molars Fig.17, English Pattern
- Arch: “Upper” tells you it is for the maxilla.
- Tooth group: “Molars” tells you the teeth it is designed for.
- Figure number: “Fig.17” identifies the exact beak and handle design.
- Pattern: “English Pattern” tells you the design family and joint type.
Other entries may add a name, such as “Cryer” in “Fig.150 Cryer, American Pattern”, or a nickname such as “cowhorn”. Some catalogues also add an item code of their own. When ordering, quote the pattern, the figure number and the full product name together to avoid confusion.
Tips when ordering
- Check the pattern as well as the figure number.
- For side-specific molar forceps, confirm whether you need the left, the right, or both.
- Compare the product photograph with the forceps you already use.
- Ask the supplier for the stainless steel grade and the quality certification covering the product.
Frequently asked questions
Is Fig.1 the same in every catalogue?
Within the English pattern, Fig.1 is widely understood as upper incisor and canine forceps. Small design differences between makers are possible, so check the description and photograph.
What does “universal” mean on forceps?
It means the forceps can be used on both the left and right sides of the same arch, as with the Fig.150 (upper) and Fig.151 (lower).
Why is it called a cowhorn?
The Fig.23 has two sharply curved, pointed beaks that resemble a pair of horns. They are placed into the root bifurcation of a lower molar.
Can I swap an English pattern number for an American one?
No. The two families use their own numbering, so the same number can describe quite different instruments.
Browse extraction forceps
- Extraction forceps
- English pattern extracting forceps
- American pattern extracting forceps
- Upper incisors and canines Fig.1, English pattern
- Upper premolars Fig.2, English pattern
- Upper molars Fig.17, English pattern
- Upper molars Fig.18, English pattern
- Lower molars cowhorn Fig.23, American pattern
- Fig.150 Cryer, American pattern
- Fig.151 Cryer, American pattern
Balban Industries has made surgical and dental instruments in Sialkot, Pakistan, since 1985. Our products are CE marked, and we work to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016.