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328 " EXTRACTION OF TEETH.

approach. In all such cases, great care should be
exercised, and a thorough examination made. There
is often extensive decay on the proximal portion of
the tooth, that is not apparent at first view.
The constitution is also to be noted—its peculiar-
ities, tendencies, and susceptibilities ; as these will
often modify the operation. A highly nervous tem-
perament will not endure an operation that one of

a different character will undergo with impunity.
There may also be idiosyncrasies and conditions that
will forbid the extraction of a tooth. One of these,
and not the least formidable, is a hemorrhagic dia-
thesis.
The manner of performing the operation is an im-
portant consideration : it should not be precipitate
or hurried. A very good criterion is, that the eye
should critically follow, and the mind attentively
comprehend every movement of the hand and instru-
ment. It is a very common method, to seize the
tooth, turn away or shut the eyes, and make the

most rapid motions possible, regardless of conse-
quences. Accidents, such as breaking the tooth,
fracturing the alveolus, laceration of the soft parts,
and rupture of the blood-vessels, are very liable to
follow a hurried execution; and there are many
cases on record, in which injury has resulted from a
rapid application of force in the extraction of teeth.