Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema after Use of a High-Speed Dental Handpiece

Subcutaneous facial emphysema after dental treatment is an uncommon complication caused by dental procedures. However, in severe cases, it can spread to the neck, mediastinum, and thorax, resulting in pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax. Here we report two cases of subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum after dental treatment using an air-compressed, high-speed dental handpiece. We describe the diagnosis and treatment of iatrogenic pneumomediastinum.