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24 PYORRHEA ALVPX>LARIS. hailed with pleasure by both. The contraction between the teeth usually results in forming a dimple, which marks the triumph over pyorrhoea alveolaris. SYMPTOMS. The symptoms of pyorrhoea alveolaris are divisible into con- stant and inconstant. CONSTANT SYMPTOMS. Pus is always present in untreated " pockets." The gum tissue overlying a " pocket/' is puffed and glazed, the color being a modification of violet. In interdental spaces the gum appears to take a secondary growth, sending a wedge-shaped process toward the articular line; this process usually is of an angry red color. This con- dition of gum generally indicates the earlier stage of the dis- ease. Incidental shrinkage occurs later, after which the vio- let color becomes more apparent. In all cases, the " health line " dips to the orifice of the socket. In proportion as a state of health obtains, the " health line " is reasserted. In chronic cases where there are a number of " pockets," the patients report feverish discomfort in parts involved at all — times ; a disagreeable taste emanating about the teeth par- ticularly after protracted sleep ; frequent lassitude ; impaired digestion. INCONSTANT SYMPTOMS. Pus expressible from " pockets " with a finger or other means.