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Mouth Gag
Multi-Position Ratchet Locking: Features a high-tensile, spring-loaded ratchet mechanism that allows for incremental jaw aperture adjustment and secure, hands-free immobilization of the oral cavity.
Atraumatic Surgical-Grade Metallurgy: Fabricated from passivated AISI stainless steel with smooth, rounded distal tips to prevent mucosal trauma while ensuring maximum resistance to repeated high-pressure autoclave sterilization cycles.
$9.61
Quick Answer: A mouth gag is an instrument placed between the jaws to hold the mouth open and give access to the oral cavity and throat. It is taught in ENT, dental and anaesthesia courses, and used in instrument identification and simulation.
How the Gag Holds the Jaws Open
Gags come in several patterns. Side gags such as the Molt and Doyen types have two hinged arms with pads that sit between the back teeth; squeezing the handles spreads the arms, and a ratchet holds them open. Frame gags such as the Boyle-Davis, used for tonsil surgery, include a tongue blade and are suspended to keep the tongue out of the way. The listing image file name refers to a dental pattern, but the pattern is not stated in the title.
In a sedated or anaesthetised patient, a gag gives a stable opening for suction and examination. In teaching, students learn where the pads sit, how to open the instrument gradually and why pressure must avoid the front teeth and lips.
Specifications
| Item | Mouth gag |
| Patterns | Side gags (Molt, Doyen) or frame gags (Boyle-Davis) |
| Action | Arms spread and held by ratchet or screw |
| Listing image | File name refers to a dental pattern |
| Pattern and size supplied | Confirm at enquiry |
Applications
- Instrument identification in ENT, dental and anaesthesia teaching
- Oral access practice on airway and dental manikins
- Demonstrating ratchet mechanisms in instrument handling sessions
- OT technician training in preparing ENT instrument trays
Care & Handling
- Clean the ratchet and hinge with a brush while the gag is open.
- If the pads are rubber or silicone, check they are intact and not perished; bare metal can chip teeth.
- Sterilise according to the materials used and dry before storage.
Why Choose LabEquip
Mouth gags are bought by dental colleges, ENT departments and OT technician courses building instrument sets for teaching. LabEquip lists this item in the Biology Lab Products range along with the laryngoscope used in airway training; state the pattern on the contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a side mouth gag and a Boyle-Davis gag?
A side gag, such as the Molt, sits between the back teeth on one side. A Boyle-Davis gag is a frame with a tongue blade, used in tonsil surgery to hold both jaws and tongue.
Where should the pads be placed?
Between the molars on one side, away from the front teeth. The molars carry the load better, and pressure on the incisors can chip or loosen them.
Why should the gag be opened slowly?
Gradual opening avoids straining the jaw joint and lets the operator check that the pads are seated. Forcing it open can injure the joint or teeth.
Can it be used on manikins?
Yes, it can be used on airway or dental manikins to practise positioning. Check that the manikin maker allows metal instruments, since some surfaces scratch.
How is the gag cleaned?
Open it fully, brush the ratchet, hinges and pads, then sterilise according to the materials. Rubber pads may need a lower-temperature method.
Is this instrument used in dentistry?
Yes. Dental gags hold the mouth open during treatment under sedation or anaesthesia, or for patients who cannot keep the mouth open.
Last Updated: September 2026
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