Serious Complications and Treatment Strategies Associated with Odontogenic Infections

Abstract

Dental caries is a prevalent chronic disease on a global scale, affecting individuals at some point in their lives. Odontogenic infections (OIs) arise from dental origins and can be caused by several pathologies, such as caries, trauma, pericoronitis, gingivitis, and iatrogenic factors. Dental caries is a prevalent chronic disease on a global scale, affecting individuals at some point in their lives. The objective of this review is to provide clinicians with information regarding uncommon yet severe complications that can arise from OIs. These complications include necrotizing fasciitis, cerebral abscess, orbital cellulitis, descending necrotizing mediastinitis, sepsis, and cavernous sinus thrombosis. The review encompasses the origin of complications, the progression of infection, as well as their diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for determining the clinical course of odontogenic infections. Treatment and diagnosis of OIs in a timely manner prevent complications. Dental professionals play a critical role in the prevention and assessment of OIs, particularly those that are progressive and difficult to treat and identify.