1.
Aust Dent J
; 64(1): 43-46, 2019 03.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-30276816
ABSTRACT
Subcutaneous facial emphysema (SFE) following routine dental operative procedure is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication. The present case details a Class V restoration where air was introduced into the fascial tissue planes via the gingival sulcus from the use of an air-driven dental handpiece. Although the SFE is usually self-limiting within 3-10 days, such instances should be regarded as a medical emergency as in severe cases, the air may spread to the neck, mediastinum and thorax to result in cervicofacial emphysema with potential pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax.