Odontogenic infections are a common problem in daily practice. Occasionally, an odontogenic infection evolves an abscess. This article discusses the aetiology, the treatment and the involvement of odontogenic abscesses in the oro-facial region. Their occurrence, course and treatment are depending on the patient’s immune response, and on microbial and environmental factors.

The indication for surgical removal of teeth or roottips is often made in dental practice. In some cases a general practitioner will decide to perform the surgical procedure himself, while in other cases he will refer the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Level of difficulty of the treatment and the experience, the time available, the availability for postoperative care, and the personal interest of the dentist are factors involved in decision making. It is likely that with increased experience, the dentist will be able to perform more complicated treatments. This article supports this process. Surgical removal of teeth and roottips is systematically described, with emphasis on technical aspects. Presurgical management, removal of singlerooted and multirooted teeth, woundcare and postoperative management are the subjects covered.

In contrast to removal of other teeth and roottips, a third molar is mostly removed for preventive reasons. There is still debate about the correct indications for removal of third molars. As soon as the decision to remove a third molar surgically is made, the dentist has to decide between performing the surgical procedure himself or referring the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Level of difficulty of the treatment and experience, available time, availability for postoperative care, and personal interest of the dentist are issues influencing this decision. This article describes systematically the indications, for instance using preoperative

Some risk factors in relation to the occurrence of an oroantral perforation are discussed in the light of the existing literature. Factors relevant for the diagnosis and the treatment of an oroantral perforation, are discussed. Small perforations probably heal without problems, provided that the alveolus is deep enough and a blood clot will form without disturbance. Some pros and cons of buccal and palatal transposition flaps for closing clinically significant oroantral perforations, are discussed.

If (a revision of) a conventional endodontic treatment is not possible or not successful, apical endodontic surgery can be indicated. The contemporary indications, the better retrograde preparation techniques with ultrasonic retro-tips, and the better visualisation of the operation area with an operation microscope can lead to higher success percentages. Moreover, the current developments in the field of compatible filling materials are promising. Also the application of lasers is promising, but has still to prove its clinical usefulness.

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