Odontogenic infection of the mandibular anterior teeth may erode through the lingual cortical plate of the mandible.

If the level at which the infection breaks out of the mandible is below the attachment of the mylohyoid, then it will spread into the submental space.

Signs and symptoms of a severe submental abscess include a firm swelling below the chin and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).

Ludwig's angina is a progressive cellulitis involving the submandibular, sublingual and submental spaces bilaterally.

Ludwig's angina may extend into the pharyngeal and cervical spaces, and the swelling can compress the airway and cause dyspnoea (difficulty breathing).