Following in the footsteps of Hippocrates —interrelation between the incidence of odontogenic abscess and meteorological parameters

ConclusionThis study supports a relationship between the incidence of odontogenic abscess and outdoor temperature, but not atmospheric pressure. A significantly higher frequency of patients with an OA presented at our emergency department on days with (comparably) low and high outdoor temperatures. Furthermore, a significant correlation between incidence and maximum temperature 2  days before presentation was found.Clinical relevanceThe treatment of odontogenic infections has become a significant economic burden to public health care facilities. The results of this study may help to adapt the numbers of doctors/dentists on duty in relation to different weather conditions. In any case, it is an impetus to think outside the box.
Source: Clinical Oral Investigations - Category: Dentistry Source Type: research