Prevalence of Odontogenic Infections and Treatment Outcomes Among Patients Attending the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu

Odontogenic infections remain a significant cause of morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in settings where access to routine dental care is limited. This study examines the prevalence, etiological distribution, and short-term treatment outcomes of odontogenic infections among patients presenting to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery clinic of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, between 2020 and 2024. A retrospective descriptive design was adopted, reviewing 380 clinical records. Data extracted include patient demographics, source tooth, duration of symptoms before presentation, treatment modality, length of hospital stay, and outcome at two weeks post-discharge. Preliminary findings suggest that mandibular molar infections account for the majority of cases, with submandibular space involvement being the most common fascial space affected. Delayed presentation beyond 72 hours was associated with higher rates of surgical drainage and prolonged hospitalization. Male patients between 20 and 40 years dominated the sample. Most cases were managed with incision and drainage combined with empirical antibiotic therapy, primarily amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. The study underscores the persistent burden of preventable infections in the South East geopolitical zone and highlights gaps in early dental intervention. Findings are expected to inform community oral health campaigns, institutional triage protocols, and undergraduate training in emergency dentistry. Keywords: odontogenic infections, fascial space, incision and drainage, Enugu, treatment outcomes.