PAPERS ON MEDICINE AND PUBLIC HEALTH 239 



RELATIONSHIP OF DENTISTRY AND MEDICINE TO 



THE PEOPLE'S WELFARE OF THE 



STATE, AND WHY 



V. A. Latham, M. D., D. D. S., F. R. M. S., Chicago 



Taken at one dose, this is a big question. I believe that 

 any profession, properly handled, is of such great benefit 

 to the community that it can and does leave its impress 

 upon the people of the community. The intellectual side 

 works so thoroughly that much of what was told remains, 

 and eventually the public respond to good influence, when 

 shown it is for their benefit. These associated professions 

 stand side by side, but with fear on one side and friendli- 

 ness on the other, and yet each is to relieve suffering and 

 even more, to prevent suffering, or trouble; hence preven- 

 tion is the theme of today. Why may this subject be given 

 here, when the Academy meets? Because of its breadth 

 of scope and character. Again, because we represent 

 sciences and professions so closely allied that we cannot do 

 without one another. The people of the state should have 

 the best we can give. Our schools and colleges are the 

 stepping stones for future advancement in all that ele- 

 vates and teaches, and to this end your teachers should be 

 paid so that you receive value for your future life work. 



Without the aid of Science, be it Biology, Chemistry, 

 Dentistry, Medicine, or their adjuncts, you cannot under- 

 stand the body needs. Development of the human body is 

 a serious and far reaching problem, for the Nation depends 

 for its very life on the best that is in us. Hence, guard your 

 youth, your health, your home, your work and play. 



The physician advises, treats and helps you in sanitation 

 and health. The dentist watches your food portals, to assist 

 the physician and to aid digestion. The botanist provides the 

 plants for samples and aids in beautifying the land with the 

 forester and provides the health and quiet shelters in our 

 woods. The chemist guards the water and food supply and 

 aids the arts and industries in many thousand ways, and 



