We should always take into consideration the amount of good accomplished for the patient,--the salvation of the tooth,--and if we are sure, from experience and observation, that the tin filling will last as long as a gold one in the same cavity, or longer, then the fee should be as much as for gold, with the cost of the gold deducted. The amount of the fee ought to be based upon the degree of intelligence, learning, and skill required; upon the amount of nervous energy expended; upon the draft made on the dentist's vitality; upon what benefit has been given the patient; upon the perfection of the result; and, everything else being equal, upon the time occupied; the value of this last factor being estimated in proportion to the shortness of it.

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