Infected Subcutaneous Emphysema: Report of Case

Abstract

Treatment of a patient with periodontal disease consisted of subgingival scaling and curettage; the patient also was instructed in the use of a water-jet spray device for use in his home oral hygiene regimen. He was cautioned against use of the high pressure adjustment. Although the patient had been using the spray conscientiously, he reported two incidents of facial swelling. The hydraulic pressure of the device had deflected the gingival tissue and forced bacteria from the pocket into the loose connective tissue.