Why can odontogenic infections have a fatal outcome?

Odontogenic infections can indeed lead to a fatal outcome because they have the potential to spread to critical areas of the body, including the brain. When an odontogenic infection occurs, particularly in the maxillary region or lower jaw, the bacteria can penetrate surrounding tissues and gain access to vascular structures that can lead to more serious complications. For instance, infections originating in the teeth can enter the bloodstream through the maxillary sinus or through direct invasion of nearby tissues, potentially resulting in brain abscesses or meningitis, both of which can be life-threatening.

The concern isn't simply about the initial site of infection; rather, it is about how these infections can evolve if not managed appropriately. In some cases, the latent period during which an infection may spread without obvious symptoms can delay treatment, further increasing the risk of severe consequences. Therefore, the direct path of infection from the oral cavity to the brain illustrates a critical reason for the potential severity of these infections when they are not treated effectively.