The International journal of prosthodontics
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Cervicofacial emphysema is a well-known complication associated with the use of a high-speed air turbine. However, retropharyngeal emphysema or pneumomediastinum in the absence of severe trauma is rare. ⋯ This article reports a case of gas diffusion into the mediastinum after dental preparatory treatment for a single-tooth crown. Pneumomediastinum should be considered whenever there are anamnestic data for retrosternal chest pain accompanied by dysphagia, dysphonia, or dyspnea caused by cervicofacial emphysema after dental treatment.