Microflora of Orofacial Space Infections of Odontogenic Origin in Children ? A Bacteriological Study

Oral cavity is an ideal niche for the growth of microorganisms. Despite a great advance in the pediatric dental care, infection of the oral cavity remains the major problem in today’s dental practice. Although we live in an era of antibiotics, odontogenic infections are still a common problem with which a dentist must deal. Orofacial space infections of odontogenic origin are very common inchildren and most of them originate from necrotic pulps, partially erupted teeth,or traumatized teeth. However, Seow  has reported that developmental abnormalities like dens evaginatus, dentin dysplasia, dentinogenesis imperfecta and familial hypophospatasia can lead to space infections.

Infections in the jaws of a child may spread rapidly because of the wide marrow spaces and also due to the bones of developing children are less dense than adult bones . 

An intraosseous infection can also cause complete destruction of the permanent tooth germs and if undiagnosed may reach the critical growth centers of jaws like the condyle. The condylar region of the mandible is the most sensitive area that can be grossly disfigured if its growth is disturbed. Moreover, abscess formation and cellulitis are quite exaggerated in children and if correct treatment is not rendered, severe consequences like cavernous sinus thrombosis, blindness, brain abscess, septicemia, airway obstruction, and mediastinitis can occur. Read more..............