Evolution of the treatment of severe odontogenic infections over 50 years: A comprehensive review

OBJECTIVES: Severe odontogenic infections remain a challenge for maxillofacial surgeons. The aim of this work is to review the literature to provide an update of knowledge on the topic. METHODS: A comprehensive review of articles in PubMed, Web of Science and Africa Journals Online was performed through searching for “severe odontogenic infections.” No language restrictions were applied. Only articles pertaining to treatment options were retrieved. Articles from the past 50 years were included. RESULTS: A total of 84 articles from 39 countries worldwide were included. Severe odontogenic infections are not unique to low- and middle-income countries but also pose challenges in developed countries. Surgical management and antibiotic therapy for this type of infection is discussed. Some immunocompromised patients have high risks of complications and mortality rates. A world map of publications on the topic is provided. CONCLUSIONS: Several important aspects of managing severe odontogenic infections are discussed. Predictors of severity in addition to recommended antibiotic choice have been debated. Diabetes mellitus is a poor predictor of the prognosis of odontogenic infections.