What should you know about maxilla bone infection?

The maxilla forms the upper jaw and supports teeth, the hard palate, and part of the nasal area. Infection can develop after a dental problem, injury, surgery, or spread from nearby tissue. Possible features include persistent tooth or jaw pain, swelling, tenderness, drainage, fever, bad taste, loose teeth, or difficulty opening the mouth. Symptoms vary, and examination is needed to distinguish bone infection from dental abscess, sinus disease, or another cause.

A dentist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or doctor may examine the mouth and face, review dental history, and request imaging or laboratory tests. Treatment can involve prescribed antimicrobial medicine, drainage of pus, removal of a damaged tooth or dead tissue, and care of the original source. Do not squeeze swelling, place chemicals on the gum, or use leftover medicine. [Bone Grafting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/bone-grafting/) may be considered later when infection or bone loss has affected reconstruction.

Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing facial swelling, fever with worsening pain, swelling near the eye, confusion, difficulty breathing or swallowing, inability to open the mouth, or feeling faint. Infection in the upper jaw can extend into nearby spaces, so waiting for a home remedy to work can be unsafe.

Could a tooth, sinus problem, wound, or previous procedure be the source? Do I need imaging or a sample? Which treatment should begin now, and how will improvement be checked? Is any dental or surgical procedure needed after the infection is controlled?