Page 176 - My FlipBook

172 FILLING TEETH.

About the year 1861, condensing gold, in filling
teeth, by the use of the mallet was introduced to the
profession by Dr. W. H. Atkinson. This method is
especially applicable and effective for the condensation
of adhesive gold, and indeed, gold in any form when
the aim is to condense each portion as it is introduced.
A more thorough condensation is made by the use of
the mallet than is possible by the hand alone greater
;
precision of manipulation is attainable ; it is easier
for the operator ; and usually less unpleasant to the
patient.
The character of the results in the use of this

instrument depends much upon the skill of the assis-
tant. It requires time, care and patience to famil-
iarize the assistant with the use of the instrument.
The plugger should be held firmly in position by the
operator, and receive the stroke squarely upon the
end ; it should be a sharp springing tap. "Very much
depends upon the character of the blow; a dead
heavy stroke will not unite the gold as it should be.
It is important that the assistant be able to follow

the indications of the operator, without loss of time.
Many assistants are disposed to give time strokes
instead of following indications; which are not ad-
missible except in very simple cases.
In order to avoid the employment of an assistant,
and to place the strokes of the instrument more under