Page 42 - My FlipBook
P. 42
2 6 THE TREATMENT OF TEETH -
especially those who are suffering from some chronic
ailment or disease, are not good subjects. The
thorough removal of tartar from the roots on which
so much depends, frequently causes pain. The in-
troduction of cocaine into the pockets will often
mitigate this, but sometimes appears to have little
or no effect. A great deal depends on the tempera-
ment of the patient, and there are nervous, irritable
individuals for whom the operation cannot be satis-
factorily carried out, and the loss of whose teeth is
in consequence only a matter of time.
During the treatment and for some time after-
wards the patient should be instructed to frequently
use an antiseptic and astringent mouth wash. One of
the best washes for these conditions is chloride of
zinc, used in the proportion of from one to four
grains to the ounce of either rose water or orange
flower water. Unfortunately, however, it is so dis-
agreeable that few patients will persist in its use.
It is very important when a good result is obtained
for the teeth to be carefully scaled at regular
intervals.
