Dental matrix retainer clamp

A disposable dental matrix retainer clamp for holding a matrix band, said retainer clamp comprising:

• a main body element having a generally centrally located first longitudinal axis and first and second opposed lateral sides;
• a head element having a first end, a second end, a generally centrally located second longitudinal axis extending from said first end to said second end, an anterior surface having a guide slot centrally located therein through which the matrix band is adapted to extend, and a pivot axis perpendicular to said first longitudinal axis and located mid-way between said first and second opposed lateral sides;
• wherein said head element is movably mounted on said main body element by way of a mounting means for angularly variable movement about said pivot axis and with respect to said main body element between a first locked position, a second locked position, and an intermediate position therebetween;
• a first detent portion on one of said head element and said main body element and a first protruding portion on the other of said head element and said main body element, said first detent portion and said first protruding portion adapted for co-operating interference fit with one another so as to thereby form a first locking means that is adapted to lock said head element in said first locked position when said first end of said head element is disposed toward said first lateral side of said main body element;
• and
• a second detent portion on one of said head element and said main body element and a second protruding portion on the other of said head element and said main body element, said second detent portion and said second protruding portion adapted for co-operating interference fit with one another so as to thereby form a second locking means that is adapted to lock said head element in said second locked position when said second end of said head element is disposed toward said second lateral side of said main body element.