Difficult Cases of Odontogenic Deep Neck Infections: A Report of Three Patients

BACKGROUND: Deep neck infections are important otolaryngologic emergencies due to serious complications and the risk of airway compromise, which can lead to mortality. Although the most common causes among pediatric patients are tonsillitis and pharyngeal infections, odontogenic infections are an important cause in adults. CASE REPORT: We present three patients with multiple deep neck space abscess formation due to odontogenic infection. Two of them required tracheotomy due to airway compromise, and one had mediastinitis. CONCLUSION: An underestimated tooth infection can cause hazardous complications such as mediastinitis and respiratory distress requiring tracheotomy.