Historical information

This bite block was used to prevent patients under anaesthesia or sedation from involuntarily biting down. This protected the patient’s teeth and tongue, while also shielding vital instruments like endotracheal tubes from damage during procedures.

The device narrows in the centre to rest securely between the molars, with a beaded metal chain and loop designed to prevent it from slipping too far into the throat — a simple yet essential feature in an era before digital monitoring.

Allen & Hanburys Ltd., a prominent British pharmaceutical company, was known for producing surgical and dental instruments throughout the 20th century. Their bite blocks were part of a broader evolution of airway management tools that prioritised safety, hygiene, and patient comfort.

Physical description

Black hard rubber tubular bite block with red rubber ends. Block narrows in the centre where there is attached a metal beaded chain ending in a circular loop for securing and preventing from losing down the patient's throat.