Subcutaneous emphysema of the head and neck region secondary to dental procedures is uncommon and typically associated with high-pressure dental devices, such as air driven handpieces or air–water syringes. Differential diagnosis for pneumoparotitis and necrotizing fasciitis is crucial. Treatment of subcutaneous emphysema focuses on prophylactic antibiotics and the prevention of respiratory and cardiac complications. The accumulated air is typically absorbed spontaneously within 2 weeks, without complications or morbidity. However, severe complications such as airway compression or infection along the fascial plane have been documented. We report the case of an 82-year-old man who developed extensive subcutaneous emphysema of the head and neck region following a dental procedure. After hospitalization and the administration of intravenous antibiotics for 7 days, the patient’s swelling decreased and had resolved by 2 weeks after discharge. (J Taiwan Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 57:239-245)
