Odontogenic Infections: General Principles

Abstract

When the host defense mechanism is low, a highly virulent pathogen from a decayed tooth, either through a periapical or periodontal route, may get an environment that favours it growth, leading to odontogenic infection that follows the path of least resistance. Such an infection may spread locally into various facial spaces or may present systemic involvement, leading to mild, moderate or severe infection. Management of such infection involves assessment of the cause, severity, hosts immune response, removal of the cause, surgical intervention including drainage along with pharmacotherapeutics and regular follow ups till it is completely resolved.