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176 OPERATIVE DENTISTRY

to the pulp; also sensitive surfaces suspected in shallow cavities,
particularly those in the gingival third. The cotton balls should
not be too large and rather tightly rolled.
Waxed Floss Silk is used to examine the proximal space where
the reflection of light does not make diagnosis positive. It cleans
the surfaces of debris and food particles, giving a deeper insight
from the embrasure. When surfaces are roughened or cupped from
incipient caries, it will show by the catching or cutting of the fibers
of the thread; if the surfaces still retain their normal polish the
thread will pass uninjured.
The Chip Blower is a small hand bellows for the expulsion of air
and is used in examination of the teeth to blow away and evaporate
the moisture from points where it is held by capillary attraction,
giving, thereby, a better view and a more correct idea as to the
color present, which is a strong factor in a diagnosis of conditions.
The Mechanical Separator Avill sometimes be of service to gain
a little added space for the inspection of contacting surfaces.
The Use of the Electric Lamp on the lingual side of the teeth has
many advantages and is a speedy and sure way of detecting any of
the stages of caries in the proximal spaces, the vitality of a tooth's
pulp as Avell as abnormal conditions about the alveolar wall and the
presence of pus and inflammatory changes in the maxillary sinus.
When the Examination Is Completed the patient should be ad-
vised of the true condition of his mouth, including the indicated
treatment of both hard and soft tissues. If the patient indicates
a desire to have the services rendered as outlined by the dentist it
is entirely good business, and by no means unprofessional, to ap-
prise the patient of the probable cost of the work as planned when
it can be approximately estimated, unless the patient is a frequent
visitor and familiar with the charges expected from the dentist con-
sulted.