Page 14 - An essay on the diseasesof the jaws, and their treatment

X AUTHOR'S PREFACE. the surgeon is indispensably required ; an inconvenience which can only be removed by affording all branches of the healing art the means of acquiring the most compre- hensive views of the history, nature, and causes of the diseases in question. That the dental surgeon has the best, and most exten- sive practical opportunities of observing and watching these maladies through their different stages can scarcely be denied ; and he may, therefore, fairly be regarded as not unqualified to give such a complete account of his pathological and practical observations, as may be most useful in their elucidation. These reasons, combined with the nature and intricacy of the subject, will, I trust, form a sufficient apology not only for the liberty I have taken in publishing the Essay, but also for having treated the subject in a more extensive manner than, under other circumstances, might appear necessary. Many of the remarks which it comprises are the re- sult of repeated and unprejudiced observation and re- flection; and it is the conviction I entertain of their practical utility, which induces me to hope that they will not be deemed undeserving of the notice of the medical profession at large. Under this impression, I feel it my duty no longer to delay their publication, and whatever may be the literary imperfection of my work, I doubt not it will meet with every indulgence due to the peculiar circumstances of its author, assured as I am, that the best and purest intentions can never be misin- terpreted by the liberal and enlightened British public, so justly celebrated for its philanthropy and good feehngs towards every citizen of the world. Conduit Street, Hanover Square.