Volume 205 Issue 5, 13 September 2008
DENTAL HYGIENATOR - The dental hygienator used a Sparklets bulb (also used in soda siphons) to produce a solution containing carbon dioxide for irrigating the gums and mouth. The container was filled with hot water to counteract the drop in temperature caused by the CO2 release and a Dentaloid tablet could be added to make a hydrogen peroxide solution. The carbon dioxide in the solution was said to be both curative and prophylactic because it diffused through the mucous membrane exerting a stimulating action on the blood vessels. The hygienator was recommended for use before and after scaling and extractions, to help prevent gum recession and gingivitis and to treat tissue suffocation resulting from the wearing of dentures. (Photographed at the BDA Museum by Filip Gierlinski. www.fi lskifoto.com)
Editorial
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