Page 151 - My FlipBook
P. 151
Filing the Teeth. 131
ticed for the cure or arrest of incipient decay, and not for
preparing the tooth for plugging.
ReasoDs which justify us in recommending the use of the
file, in the strongest manner, for the above purpose.
First—The necessity for the separation of the teeth is indi-
cated by the circumstances under which they are most liable
to decay, which have been mentioned under the head of
caries, and need not be repeated here.
Second—If it be objected, that the enamel is cut away by
the process, the objection is not valid, for the enamel will be
found to be already destroyed, or so much disorganized as to
be useless and even injurious to the subjacent portion of the
tooth.
Third— -If again it be objected, that the bony portion of the
tooth is exposed by the practice, the same remarks will apply
as in the case above ; for its destruction will inevitably follow,
if left to the ravages of the disease ; and with the most unfa-
vorable result, the disease will be retarded ; and in most favor-
able, completely arrested : and further, if even under the form-
er supposition, they do go on to decay, so as subsequently to
require plugging, before the disease is entirely arrested, yet,
the operation is not futile, as it will only be anticipating what
must be done preparatory to filling : hence, the chance of
arresting the disease by filing, which is certainly very great,
is an expenseless acquisition, can do no harm, and will, in a
great number of instances, save a vast deal of trouble, vexa-
tion, pain, and expense.
Fourth—No objection ought to be made to the practice, on
plea of disfigurement of the teeth, for if the operation be skill-
fully performed, this result will not accompany or follow it.
The following i£ an important position, as it shows what
may be done for the arrest of incipient decay, by the judici-
ous use of the file.
The lone of well formed teeth, (or teeth ivhose structure is
compact) exposed in a healthy mouth, the secretions of ivhich-
are not vitiated or acrid, docs not decays unless neglected, or in a