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298 ALVEOLAR ABSCESS.

abscess is exceedingly variable in character, according
to the constitutional peculiarities and susceptibilities
of the patient, the condition of the parts immediately
adjacent, and, to some extent, the cause which has
produced it. In a good constitution, after an abscess
is formed, it will discharge healthy pus. Occasion-
ally, yet very seldom, does nature alone effect a per-
manent cure. In constitutions of a cachectic dia-
thesis, alveolar abscess is liable to constant discharge
of an unhealthy pus, or purulent acrid matter; and

the parts about it are usually in a diseased condition.
The cases in which alveolar abscess is most likely
to occur are those of a manifest inflammatory diath-
esis, or those in which there is considerable local
inflammation, from some local exciting cause. In
the cases of constitutional predisposition, the abscess
after a time assumes a chronic character, constantly
secreting and discharging pus, but does not usually
cause much pain, though the tooth from which it
proceeds will experience some soreness and an uneasy
sensation. In the acute forms of it, however, there

will be intense pain. In some cases, the sac will be
formed without much irritation of the surrounding
parts ; while in others, irritation and inflammation will
extend to parts more remote, especially if there are
any irritating agents at work.
Usually, the sac is found at the point of the root