Page 39 - My FlipBook

DENUDING. 35

a state of simple inflammation exists ; for there is in-
flammation in numerous instances without this deposit.

Again, in all cases where there is periostitis, that
state is definitely indicated by percussion upon the
affected tooth: indeed, in the occlusion of the jaws,
pain is usually experienced. Yet there are found
many teeth whose roots are subjects of this deposit,
that have never given any indications, either by pain
or otherwise, of a diseased condition.
This subject is one in which there is room, at least

so far as dentists are concerned, for extensive obser-
vation.

DENUDING.

This consists in a wasting away of the enamel of
the anterior teeth, from the points toward the necks.
The affection, however, is of too rare occurrence to
demand extended consideration. The color of the
enamel is not changed by this process, nor is its

natural polish impaired by any abrasion. The dentine,
on becoming exposed by this removal of its natural
protection or covering, is perfectly smooth, but of a
yellowish cast, in some cases inclining to brown.
When the enamel is removed, there seems to be a
cessation of the destructive process; for the crowns
of such teeth will, in many instances, endure for a

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