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26 PYORRIKEA ALVEOLAKIS. Apply firm pressure with a finger or other means upon the gum at cervical regions and watch for possible expressure of pus. Test all gingival borders with a delicate, flat, non-rigid probe, in quest of " pockets." Interrogate the patient as to gastric disturbances—due to ingested pus. If the complexion is sallow, and the face puffed, particu- larly under the eyes, inquire for urinary disturbances. TREATMENT. First remove from the mouth all visible salivary calculus. Having located a " pocket " and determined the form and depth, the operator should, if possible, definitely locate the calculus, and inform himself as to its extent, etc. These points are essential to a proper selection of instruments most available for the proposed operation. In conducting the preliminary examination it should be borne in mind that the pus " pockets " are of two kinds, simple and complex. A complex " pocket w is galleried or grottoed, while simple ones have direct continuous sides that are easily followed by a probe. Complex " pockets " seriously compli- cate procedure, even when fully understood. For the purpose of examining the " pockets n the writer has found most practicable a steel sound, not exceeding half a line in width, the angles all carefully reduced, the end rounded and smooth ; the handle should be octagon and slender, the
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