Odontogenic Infection Facial Swelling — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyOral SurgeryOdontogenic Infection Facial SwellingNDEB AFK

Which of the following is the most common cause of facial swelling presenting to a dental emergency clinic?

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Correct answer: D — Odontogenic infection (dentoalveolar abscess)

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · E = shown as C · A = shown as E

Odontogenic infection (dentoalveolar abscess from a non-vital or periodontally compromised tooth) is by far the most common cause of facial swelling presenting to dental emergency clinics. The infection typically originates from carious teeth with pulp necrosis (periapical abscess) or periodontal pockets (periodontal abscess) and spreads to the surrounding fascial spaces. Management depends on the source and severity: ranging from extraction/endodontic treatment with I&D for localised abscess to hospital admission with IV antibiotics for severe spreading infections.

Reference: Hupp – Contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 7th ed., 2019