Focal Infection in Dentistry

Focal infection definition

 * Any infection focused, localized somewhere in the body which is a potential threat for spreading to other areas

Focal infection

 * Necrotic pulp


 * Gangrenous pulp


 * Periapical lesion, granuloma or cyst


 * Chronic marginal gingivitis


 * Chronic marginal periodontitis


 * Paranasal sinuses inflammation

Infectious agents

 * Bacteria


 * Toxins (of bacteria)


 * Immunocomplexes

Risk groups

 * Immunosupressed patients
 * organ transplantation
 * HIV
 * Cancer


 * Prosthetic heart valves


 * Hip replacement


 * Heart surgery

Treatment options

 * The major factor that determines our treatment is the time that the patient comes


 * 1) If the patient comes two to three weeks before surgery --> EXTRACTION


 * 1) If we have adequate time we treat the patient (e.g. endodontic treatment)