What should you know about facial osteomyelitis?

Infection may reach facial bone from a dental infection, an injured area, nearby skin or sinus infection, or after surgery. The jaw is a frequent site because teeth and gums sit close to bone. Symptoms can include persistent tenderness, warmth, swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, loose teeth, an unpleasant taste, or fluid draining near the gum or skin. A clinician may examine your mouth and face and arrange blood tests or imaging. The pattern and duration of symptoms help distinguish a bone infection from a routine bruise or tooth problem.

Arrange prompt evaluation with a doctor or dentist, especially when facial swelling is increasing or pain persists. Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed and do not stop because symptoms ease. Treatment may also involve cleaning infected tissue, treating a dental source, or removing unhealthy bone; complex reconstruction can sometimes involve [Bone Grafting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/bone-grafting/). Keep the area clean, drink fluids if swallowing is comfortable, and avoid squeezing a draining spot. Do not use leftover antibiotics.

Seek emergency care for trouble breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading swelling, confusion, severe weakness, or swelling around the eye with vision changes. Contact a clinician promptly for fever, worsening pain, pus, numbness, a new loose tooth, or symptoms that return after treatment. These signs can indicate an infection extending into nearby tissues and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask which bone and source of infection are suspected, whether imaging or a culture is needed, how long treatment may take, and what symptoms would mean the infection is spreading. Ask how dental care, wound care, and follow-up imaging fit into your plan.