141 



really is. Such a state of the mouth is far from rare, 

 and because of its frequency, being the more likely 

 to be met with in practice, it was chosen for illus- 

 tration. The molar teeth are less subject to distortion, 

 but, nevertheless, are sometimes irregular, and from 

 the same causes. I have seen the palate pierced by 

 a tooth which grew in an unnatural direction. The 

 treatment, in both cases, would be alike. The milk 

 teeth should never be allowed to remain in the mouth 

 after the corresponding permanent teeth are fairly 

 up. If removal prior to this period does no good, 

 now the operation is suggested by its accordance 

 with the natural process, and the sooner it is under- 

 taken the better : any delay will only create difficulty, 

 and render the restoration of the displaced tooth, 

 more problematical. The unabsorbing fang, will, 

 in time, become united to the bone ; and if its ex- 

 traction is then attempted, fracture of the jaw may 

 be the consequence. In no instance should the 

 stable keeper be told to pull out the teeth : he has 

 not the proper instruments for the purpose, and must 

 use unnecessary violence even if he does no greater 

 injury. The animal, besides, is rendered shy of 

 him, in whom it is essential it should be educated to 



