What space can be involved due to a lower molar infection?

Lower molar infections can potentially spread to various fascial spaces in the head and neck region due to their anatomical relationships. When considering the potential spread of infection originating from lower molars, all mentioned spaces are relevant.

The submental space is located beneath the jaw and can be involved if an infection spreads from the lower incisors or first molar area. An infection in this area can drain into the submental space, especially when considering the drainage routes available.

The buccal space is the area between the buccinator muscle and the skin of the cheek. Infection from mandibular molars can readily extend into this space, particularly in cases of periapical abscesses or periodontal infections that progress.

The infratemporal space lies deeper, containing important neurovascular structures. An infection from the lower molars can also spread to this space, often through the pathways provided by the mandibular nerves or the venous drainage routes associated with dental infections.

Thus, since a lower molar infection can indeed involve the submental space, buccal space, and infratemporal space, it is accurate to state that all of these spaces can be affected by the infection.