PATHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Infections from the masseter muscle spread into the parotid space to involve the temporalis and lateral pterygoid muscles.

Detailed explanation-2: -The sequence of odontogenic infection spread that most commonly occurs is: The masticatory space is the primary site of spread from mandibular infection. The parotid and pharyngeal spaces are the secondary sites of spread from the masticatory space.

Detailed explanation-3: -There are several routes that cause submasseteric abscess such as odontogenic infection, needle injection, and direct extension via adjacent tissue. Dental infection undoubtedly is the most common origin, with the mandibular and molar being the usual infected sources.

Detailed explanation-4: -Most infections of the masticator space arise from the molars, especially the third molar2). The most common route of spread is posteriorly and medially extending to the temporal space without breakdown of the space barriers or it can break through the cervical fascia and spread medially to the parapharyngeal space2).