Page 526 - My FlipBook

522

SECTION II.
ALKALIES AND SAPONACEOUS SUBSTANCES, &C

The alkalies, alkaline and saponaceous substances are con-
siderably used in cleaning the teeth, and in the composition
of dentifrices. The carbonates of potash and soda are ex-
treme y useful in cleaning the teeth and mouth, and removing
a filthy and disordered state of the gums ; to dissolve the thick,
clammy mucus, especially in sickness, and fevers, &c. Cas-
tile or Spanish soaps, in small quantities, are excellent sub-
stances which with a brush and soft water to clean the teeth.
They give a peculiar sweetness to the breath. A brush
drawn over a cake of pure Windsor or Spanish soap and then
applied to the teeth will do much to preserve their health
and beauty.
The ashes of burnt tobacco are often used with great advan-
tage. The mild vegetable alkalies used in any form, if not used
to excess, will be found very useful in preserving the health and
beauty of the teeth, gums, and mouth. Dr. J. Green, profes-
sor of chemistry in Jefferson College, Philadelphia, in his
lectures upon the super-carbonate of soda, mentions its use-
ful qualities in removing the tooth-ache, which he considers
to depend upon the formation of an acid within the carious
portion of the tooth, and acting upon its nerve : the alkali
neutralizes the acid, and thereby relieves the pain by remov-
ing the cause.
The kali purum is used as a caustic in destroying the
nerve.
Quick lime has been used for the same purpose.