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548 DENTAL MEDICINE.

of a white, opaque powder, freely soluble in water, with a mild,
slightly alkaline taste.
Medical Properties and Action.—Bicarbonate of sodium is an-
tacid, alterative, lithontriptic, and from its mildness and non-
irritating qualities is more pleasant to the taste and to the stomach
than the carbonate. It is extensively used in the preparation of
soda and seidlitz powders.
Therapeutic Uses.—Bicarbonate of sodium is internally admin-
istered in neuralgia connected with acidity of the stomach, cardi-
algia, flatulence and vomiting, dyspepsia, diarrhcea, diseases of
the skin, albuminuria, calculous disease, etc. Externally in dis-
eases of the skin of a scaly and papular nature, ecthyma, ring-
worm, and sprinkled over burns and scalds, and combined with
an equal part of common salt, for stings of venomous insects.
Dose.—Of bicarbonate of sodium, gr. v. to 5jj in carbonic acid
water, or with sugar and mucilage.
Effervescing Powders.— Puheris Effervescentes are composed
of tartaric acid, gr. xxv, in one paper, and bicarbonate of sodium,
XXX, in another paper.
Dental Uses.—Bicarbonate of sodium is employed in dental
practice to relieve neuralgia of an acid origin, in which a full
dose often proves very serviceable ; in aphthae of children it is
often combined with a little rhubarb and proves very efficacious.
Externally it instantly relieves odontalgia when a small portion
of the powder is applied to the irritable pulp and properly
secured. It is also useful for neutralizing the acidity of the oral
fluids, especially when such a condition is the result of preg-
nancy. It also forms an antacid ingredient in dentifrices.
Dr. E. C. Kirk recommends a thick paste of sodium carbonate
as a local sedative and obtundent of hypersensitive dentine, its
application to be made to a dry cavity and repeated when neces-
sary. In acute periodontitis, applied to the gums after a slight
puncture, it will often afford speedy relief from the pain. As a
chemical disinfectant and antiseptic. Dr. Leffmann considers
sodium carbonate to be of great value in the treatment of devita-
lized teeth containing semi-putrescent pulps and food debris^ to
be followed by injections of warm water.