Abstract
BACKGROUND: Odontogenic abscesses may significantly affect maternal health during pregnancy. AIM: This study analyzes three cases of pregnant patients with odontogenic infections, comparing them to a control group of non-pregnant women, and reviews recent literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2020 and April 2025, 3 pregnant and 70 non-pregnant women with odontogenic abscesses were treated. Clinical presentation, pathogens, therapy, and outcomes were compared. RESULTS: Severe sequelae, such as rapid abscess spread and systemic inflammation, were more frequent in pregnant women, though not statistically significant (p = 0.068). Pregnant patients also tended toward prolonged intubation (p = 0.194) and targeted antibiotic use (p = 0.133). Antibiotic selection was based on gestational age, with beta-lactams preferred. Surgical interventions were more extensive, often involving multiple neck spaces. Hospitalization was longer (≥4 days in most cases) due to maternal-fetal monitoring. CONCLUSIONS: Odontogenic abscesses in pregnancy require individualized management and gestation-adjusted antibiotic therapy.