And here we will mention, rather by way of curiosity than for any real historical interest which they possess, two pamphlets on _odontitis_, published respectively in 1791 and 1794 by Ploucquet and Kappis, who maintained that not only the dental pulp, but all the parts that form the tooth are susceptible of inflammation.[529] In Kappis’ pamphlet we find the following ideas developed, upon which we do not think necessary to comment. The inflammatory process consists essentially in the increased flow of humors to a given part and in a more or less intense reaction of the vital force. Both of these things may take place in the teeth. These are liable to swell, that is, to undergo an increase of all their dimensions, in proof of which assertion the author relates the case of an individual, who when attacked by a violent toothache had found the spaces between his teeth so narrowed that it was no longer possible to make use of his usual toothpick, even if he had tried to do so regardless of pain. But when the toothache was over, the same toothpick again became serviceable as before. He says that there is no cause for wonder that in odontitis no redness of the teeth is to be perceived, for in other inflammations as well, redness is wanting, and, moreover, it exists in the interior membrane of the tooth. As in other inflammations, so also in odontitis, the usual issue is resolution. Dental fistulæ may derive from internal suppuration. The impurities deposited on the teeth are by him supposed to be owing to an increase of their secretion! According to the author, caries, the breaking down of teeth apparently healthy, as well as their falling out, is generally caused by an inflammation of these organs, that is, by odontitis, an affection that, he says, may be of very varied kind, the principal forms being the rheumatic, arthritic, sympathetic, and gastric. RANIERI GERBI.[530] In a book by this author we find recommended a very singular cure for toothache, even of the most violent nature. It is in no way scientific, and is besides not particularly pleasant, notwithstanding that the author, professor at the University of Pisa, was a scientist of merit, enjoying special esteem as a mathematician and cultivator of natural sciences.