Used by dentists to sculpt molding wax, this tool is effective for sculpting small flat surfaces in clay, epoxy putty or similar soft materials. This stainless steel tool is heavier than the small plastic spatulas often sold in art stores, making it a little easier to handle.
Dentists use an assortment of small steel picks to clean between teeth, remove tartar from tooth surfaces and for other work in tight places. Sculptors use dental picks for similar purposes. According to The Large Scale Trains Page, these dental tools are useful for cleaning details in plaster and urethane castings. They also work well to create very fine detail in soft sculpting material.
Tilted dental mirrors help dentists and sculptors reflect light into hard-to-see places. A dental mirror can be useful for people who need to sculpt crevices or the underside of a piece, especially when that piece is difficult or impossible to move. These tiny mirrors can prevent a sculptor from needing to completely rotate a large or delicate sculpture to work on the underside.
Dentists use forceps to place crowns, braces and other small objects inside the mouth. They can also be used to hold objects that should not come in contact with the fingers. Dental forceps work well for sculptors who need to hold or clamp very small parts. They may also be used much like needle-nosed pliers to create tight bends in wire.
The bits for dental drills may be used by sculptors long after they are too dull for use in dentistry. These bits fit well in several types of rotary tools and work well for carving wood, bone, antler, plastic and similar materials. Some dentists are willing to give their used drill bits to sculptors after the bits have exceeded their useful lifespan in the dental office.