Page 35 - Craventreatiseonpyorrh00crav

PYORRHCEA ALVEOLARIS. 25 Frequent lancinating pains in affected sockets, and some- times regional neuralgia that may involve an entire side of the jaw. Slow but progressive recession of gum at the cervix, attended by excessive sensibility of exposed surfaces. Distressing night-pains when in bed, sometimes described " by the sufferer as a drawing sensation in the " pockets —relief from which is obtained by sitting up in any manner to avoid sleeping in a recumbent position. This symptom is peculiar to cases of long standing, and indicates extremely deep " pock- ets." Loosening of teeth in their sockets, at times elongating or lifting, and soreness. Rotation of one or more teeth, sometimes pushing them out of the arch—a condition more common to incisors, but occa- sionally affecting bicuspids. In very bad cases where there are many " pockets " of un- usual pyorrheeal activity, the faces of patients may appear puffed, particularly under the eyes, skin appearing doughy ; extreme languor ; bad gastric condition. DIAGNOSIS. By inquiry ascertain the observations of the patient, and note to what extent they may comport with the symptoms stated herein. Observe any gingival inflammation and sponginess of gum, and bluish or violet color about the necks of teeth.