Oral microbiology

Oral Microbiology

Oral microbiology is a branch of microbiology that focuses on the microorganisms, specifically bacteria, that reside in the oral cavity.

Pronunciation

Oral: /ˈɔːrəl/ Microbiology: /ˌmaɪkrəʊbaɪˈɒlədʒi/

Etymology

The term "oral" is derived from the Latin word "os, oris" meaning mouth, and "microbiology" is a compound of the Greek words "mikros" meaning small, "bios" meaning life, and "logia" meaning study.

Definition

Oral microbiology studies the complex ecological system where up to 700 species of bacteria that make up the oral microbiome. These bacteria often exist as complex biofilms, which are bacterial communities that are highly structured and cooperative.

Related Terms

• Microbiome: The collective genetic material of all the microorganisms living in or on a particular environment, such as the human body or a part of the body.
• Biofilm: A thin, usually resistant layer of microorganisms (as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces.
• Microorganism: A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus, or fungus.

Importance

Oral microbiology is crucial in the maintenance of oral health and prevention of dental diseases such as periodontal disease, dental caries, and oral thrush. Understanding the oral microbiome can also provide insights into systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which have been linked to oral health.

Research

Research in oral microbiology focuses on understanding the factors that influence the balance of the oral microbiome, the mechanisms of biofilm formation, and the interactions between oral bacteria and the host immune system.

See Also

• Dental plaque
• Oral hygiene
• Oral pathology
• Periodontology

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Oral microbiology
• Wikipedia's article - Oral microbiology

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