Space Infections (Ludwig's Angina)
Conventional Implant Ludwig’s angina is caused by a bacterial infection (cellulitis) on the neck and mouth floor. It usually begins with a dental infection (abscessed tooth). This uncommon kind of cellulitis can spread quickly, producing life-threatening swelling and impairing the ability to breathe.
Symptoms of Ludwig’s Angina
- Difficulty speaking
- Fever or chills
- Jaw pain
- Neck pain, swelling, or redness
- Protruding or swollen tongue
- Swollen cheeks and jaw
- Tongue tenderness
- Toothache
Who is Susceptible to Ludwig's Angina?
- A broken jaw (facial fracture)
- Cavities, cracked tooth a tooth extraction
- Diabetes
- Malnutrition
- Oral cancer
- Poor oral hygiene
- Substance use disorder
- Tongue piercings
- Weak immune system
Ludwig's Angina Diagnosis & Treatments
Based on the symptoms, your doctor can diagnose Ludwig’s angina. A CT scan could also be performed. When diagnosed early, IV antibiotics can cure the condition. When swelling becomes life-threatening and interferes with breathing, the patient will require: a tracheostomy to improve breathing, IV antibiotics followed by oral antibiotics, and surgery to extract the tooth and drain the infection.