as “the most preservative, and at the same time the most perishable of all filling materials.” The antiseptic quality is a valuable feature for root fillings, and as these are supposed to be protected from the fluids of the mouth, their solubility is unimportant. “The zinc phosphates are less irritating in their action on organized tissue, are denser in structure and less soluble in the oral fluids, and for general purposes are preferable and in more general use than the zinc chlorides. “Briefly, then, to sum the matter up, what is the value of zinc plastics in dental practice, and to what extent should they be used? * * All large cavities should have a layer of this substance intervening between metallic fillings and their deeper portions, if possible, to protect the pulp from thermal irritation. * * * As a covering contiguous to exposed pulps, the more neutral and non-irritating of these preparations possess more good qualities than any other substance, chiefly on account of their adaption without pressure and the non-generation of heat. “For filling root canals, zinc plastics are unsurpassed. The method I have practiced for a long time with more satisfactory results than any other, is to carry these to the apex on shreds of cotton of a fineness suitable to the case in hand, using necessarily the non-sticky variety. The facility and greater certainty with which the apex may be reached, combined with the imperviousness and antiseptic properties, make them the ideal root filling. For use in connection with crown and bridge-work, we have nothing to compare with them, and can only say they stand alone. For entire fillings in teeth that promise pathological complications, or for obvious reasons require temporary operations, they are a most valuable material. Taking them all in all, they occupy an important place in dentistry, and we could illy afford to return to the methods in vogue before their introduction. But like all good things, zinc plastics are often abused and their use is not always followed by the best results. * * I am opposed to temporary fillings as a substitute for something better, except possibly in children's cases, or where pathological or certain sexual conditions prohibit. The principal provocation for criticism is the indiscriminate practice of prostituting a good thing for uses other than its proper one. The outcome of such practice can result only against the general good of the profession, through the ultimate disappointment and loss to the innocent victim. The remedy that suggests itself against such abuse is to be more explicit in imparting advice on these matters. When temporary fillings must be inserted, impress the patient forcibly as to their limited utility. If such fillings are preferred on account of their inexpensiveness, or for any other reason, be emphatic in calling them temporary fillings and nothing more.” DISCUSSION.