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to every possible variety of shape and situation of the cavi-
ties, by filing or bending them, &c. The operator should be
prepared with a sufficient number and variety of them, so as
not to be prevented from plugging a cavity in a tooth, from
its situation or peculiar shape. Resolution and ingenuity will,
in most cases, overcome any obstacles which may present
by the assistance of a tolerable variety of instruments.

Of the Substances proper for Filling the Cavities of the
t
Teeth.

It would seem superfluous to speak particularly upon
this subject. One would suppose that the common sense
and discrimination of men and practioners in particular,
would determine this point, after the years of experience that
have elapsed since plugging the teeth has been practised.
But such is the ignorance or cupidity of some dentists at this
period, that there are not wanting men who will assert to
their patients, that lead or tin is better than gold, and there-
by impose in the grossest manner upon their patients and the
public in general. Of this, as an illustration, I will mention
the following case Two young gentlemen, who were prepa-
:
ring for the Christian ministry, called on me in May, 1827,
to consult me respecting their teeth. I found in both, that
their teeth were in a very bad condition. The front incisores
of both were in a state of decay. I advised a course of
dental operations which would place their teeth and gums in
a state of health, and that the carious front teeth should be
plugged with gold; and more especially so, because they
were intending to become public speakers, in whom the
health and beauty of the teeth are indispensable to a cleanly
appearance of their mouths, and perfect enunciation of lan-
guage. They both went away, saying, if they concluded to