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Osteomyelitis of the jaw is a serious inflammatory condition characterized by infection of the jawbone and bone marrow. It most commonly affects the mandible due to its relatively limited blood supply compared to the maxilla. The condition usually arises from odontogenic infections such as untreated dental caries, periodontal disease, periapical abscesses, or following tooth extractions and maxillofacial trauma. Systemic factors like diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, malnutrition, and poor oral hygiene significantly increase susceptibility.

Clinically, osteomyelitis of the jaw may present with persistent pain, facial swelling, fever, pus discharge, halitosis, trismus, and loosening of teeth. In chronic cases, sequestrum formation, fistulae, and pathological fractures may occur. Radiographic features vary with disease duration, ranging from ill-defined radiolucencies in acute stages to mixed radiolucent–radiopaque areas in chronic osteomyelitis. Advanced imaging such as CT scans helps assess the extent of bony involvement.

Management requires a multidisciplinary approach. Early diagnosis, elimination of the source of infection, and prolonged antibiotic therapy based on culture sensitivity are essential. Surgical intervention, including sequestrectomy, decortication, or resection, may be required in advanced or refractory cases. With timely and appropriate treatment, prognosis is generally favorable, whereas delayed management can lead to significant morbidity and functional impairment.