The Kenya Dental Association (KDA) has issued an urgent warning to the public about the dangers of severe dental infections, including Ludwig’s angina, a fast-spreading and potentially fatal condition that can block the airway within hours.
The warning comes in the wake of a recent case aired on Citizen TV, where a patient developed the condition after a botched dental procedure at an unlicensed facility.
The patient, Amos Isoka, underwent a tooth extraction at a facility, where he later developed rapid swelling in his jaw and neck, difficulty speaking, and other life-threatening symptoms.
Doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) confirmed he was suffering from Ludwig’s angina and began urgent treatment. His family has since reported positive progress, but the doctor who performed the procedure remains on the run.
Ludwig’s angina often develops from untreated or poorly managed tooth infections, particularly in the lower jaw. The condition is dangerous because it can quickly block the airway, making breathing difficult, and can lead to severe complications or even death if not treated promptly.
The KDA emphasises that treatment requires immediate hospital care, including strong intravenous antibiotics and, in some cases, surgical intervention to drain the infection and remove the affected tooth.
“Ludwig’s angina is a serious and fast-spreading infection of the floor of the mouth, tongue, throat and neck. It is dangerous because it can quickly block the airway and make breathing difficult. It is both a medical and dental emergency,” said KDA in a statement.
The KDA has urged members of the public to seek dental care only from licensed and qualified professionals and to report any suspicious clinics to the authorities.
“Anyone suspected of having Ludwig’s angina must be referred immediately to a qualified dentist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment. Delays in care can lead to severe complications and even death,” KDA said in its statement.
“Members of the public are advised to avoid quack services and always seek dental care from licensed and qualified dental professionals. Safe, early, and professional dental care prevents serious infections and saves lives.”
Meanwhile, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has intensified its crackdown on illegal clinics, shutting down hundreds of unregistered facilities across the country.
Health authorities warn that quack practitioners operating without proper training put patients at serious risk.