Originally Posted by grann of 6
Originally Posted by Goldie
I once was at a vendor booth at Paducah where they were selling the metal tools used for cleaning teeth. Recently, I asked my dentist if he ever had any discards. Turns out they can only be sharpened for dental use a few times. He gave me a handful and they are plenty sharp for sewing/craft use! (I even have to dull the one I use as a stylus with a whetstone.)
Next time you have your teeth cleaned, consider asking for some. They are great for picking out threads and handy around the house for miscellaneous needs. (Just be sure to store them safely.)
I used to be a dental assistant. Nowadays they may not be able to give you the tools. The HEPA rules are quite stringent now. Also the one dentist used to send his tools out to be resharpened; they are so expensive.
I worked in Oral Surgery up until 2 years ago, HEPA only applies to patient information privacy, it has nothing to to with medical/ dental tools.