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92 GENERAL REMARKS ON FILLING.

mercury. The consequence is, either that the mass
becomes porous, or that it contracts ; the former,
doubtless, in cases where the oxydation blackens

through, and the latter, where it is confined to the
surface. When a plug is in either of these conditions,
the preservation of the tooth is very uncertain. On
removing an ordinary amalgam plug that has been worn
for some time, its entire surface will generally be found
oxydized : and a tooth filled with this material gene-
rally becomes blackened, and its appearance ruined.
To such objections against this material, another is
to be added in cases in which there are fillings or plate
of platinum or gold : galvanic action will be estab-
lished, in a degree proportionate to the proximity and

extent of surface of the metals and the condition of
the secretions. This may occasion much mischief.
Some constitutions are very susceptible of the influ-
ence of mercury ; and a gradual decomposition of sev-
eral amalgam fillings in the mouth, may seriously
impair the general health. Therefore, before this
material is ever employed, the health, temperament
and habits of the patient, should be carefully noted
for these and other circumstances may often indicate
its inadmissibility.

So great and so numerous are the objections to this
material, that it is but little used by reliable opera-
tors. Its adaptability is the main property on which