Complex odontogenic infection: report of two cases

Abstract

Odontogenic infections originate in teeth and supporting tissues and can spread through deep fascial spaces. Therefore, the objective of this work is to address two complex cases treated in a hospital setting. Reports: The first case is a 33-year-old male patient, admitted to the Maria Aparecido Pedrossian Hospital, referred to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Traumatology team, presenting signs and symptoms suggestive of an abscess involving the left submandibular region. At initial assessment, cervicofacial pain and edema, dysphagia, odynophagia, hyporexia, increased hardness on palpation and trismus. The intra-oral examination revealed edema, hyperemia in the tonsillar pillar, soft palate and coronary destruction of element 36. In the second case, a 26-year-old man was admitted to the same hospital, presenting pain, edema in the left submandibular region, limitation of cervical mobility, dyspnea, dysphagia, odynophagia and fever. On physical examination, an increase in hardened volume on palpation, approximately 7 cm, signs of recent extraction of element 37 and extensive caries in element 38. The proposed treatment involved antibiotic therapy, surgical removal of the cause and drainage of the abscess, in addition to complementary care. Given its relevance, it is essential to understand the etiology, correct diagnosis and apply appropriate treatment for odontogenic infections.