We shall now give a number of tooth-powders which are harmless, efficient, and agreeable. We have used them in our practice for years, sometimes one, sometimes the other, as persons preferred or seemed to require, for some teeth and gums demand different preparations from others. The best of all is the freshly prepared charcoal of the areca nut, or of willow, in impalpable powder. It should be kept tightly corked, and used without the addition of any other substance.
An excellent ordinary powder, where camphor is not disagreeable, is—
Precipitated chalk seven drachms;
Powdered camphor half a drachm;
Powdered orris root one drachm.
Mix them thoroughly.
The following is an admirable paste for occasional use:—
White, dried castile soap, in fine powder,
Sepia, in powder, equal parts.
Mix to the consistency of paste with fresh, rectified honey, and add a few drops of oil of teaberry (Gaultheria). It should be used only occasionally, as the sepia wears the enamel when often applied.
Another good preparation is—
Sugar of milk two ounces;
Tannic acid quarter of an ounce;
Red lake half a drachm;
Oil of cloves, teaberry, or anise a few drops.
