Mitchell's trimmer: Who was Mitchell and what was he trimming?

Abstract

Mitchell's trimmer, also known as an osteo-trimmer, osteocarver or osteocarver #4, is a commonly used instrument in a dental professional's armamentarium. Today the instrument is used in a range of dental specialties; however, its modern use has no association to trimming. This article explores the origin of the Mitchell's trimmer, its intended use and reveals the founder of the renowned instrument.