Oral Surgery · single question
A localized infection associated with a pericoronitis can likely spread to which fascial space?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Sublingual space
Pericoronitis of the mandibular third molar can spread to adjacent fascial spaces. The PRIMARY and most common space affected is the SUBLINGUAL space (inferior to the tongue, superior to the mylohyoid) — accessed from the lingual aspect of the third molar region. From there, infection can progress to the submandibular space and beyond. The sublingual space is the direct pathway for lower third molar infection spread.
- A. INCORRECT. The deep temporal space is in the infratemporal fossa and is not a primary spread pathway from third molar pericoronitis.
- B. CORRECT. The SUBLINGUAL space is the primary fascial space into which mandibular third molar pericoronitis spreads. It lies superior to the mylohyoid and communicates with the submandibular space. Infection tracking lingually from the third molar enters the sublingual space.
- C. INCORRECT. The submental space is between the symphysis and hyoid bone — third molar infection typically spreads lingually/posteriorly to the sublingual and submandibular spaces before the submental.
- D. INCORRECT. The parotid space is accessed from the parotid gland region — not typically the primary spread from mandibular third molar pericoronitis.