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CHAPTER III. —
OF THE DISEASES OF THE GUMS AND THE CONSE-
QUENCES OF THEM.

§ 1. The Scurvy in the Gums.
The Gums are extremely subject to diseases, the symptoms
of which, in an advanced state of them, are in geneial such
as were described in the preceding chapter.
They swell, become extremely tender, and bleed upon every
occasion ; which circumstances being somewhat similar to
those observable in the true Scurvy, the disease has generally
been called a Scurvy in the Gums.
But as this seems to be the principal way in which the
Gums are affected. I suspect that the same symptoms may
arise from various causes ; as I have often seen the same
appearances in children evidently of a scrofulous habit ; and
have also suspected them in grown people : they likewise
frequently appear in persons, who are, in all other respects,
perfectly healthy.
any unusual sensation produced by touching the tooth, indicating a
degree of inflammation in the periosteum of the socket. This plan may
he followed up by the use of astringent lotions. It is unnecessary
to add, that any force applied to the tooth, and even frequently
touching it, should be avoided. Ligatures are especially improper.
T. Bell.
These cases usually occur in persons about the middle period of life,
and appear to depend upon some peculiar state of the constitution.
There ia but little hopes of arresting the progress of the disease by
any local treatment.]