Oral Microbiology Specialists

This area of expertise uses laboratory procedures to diagnose infections of the mouth, face and neck.

These infections are caused by micro-organisms which attack the mouth and face and can be any of the following:

• Fungal: this type of infection is caused by multicellular organisms which are covered a thick cell wall. The fungi in this infection grow as yeasts or resemble the branches of a tree.
• Bacteria: unicellular micro-organisms are responsible for this type of infection. These bacteria are usually no longer than a couple of micrometers and take on a variety of shapes such as rods, spheres and spirals.
• Viruses: a virus particle is composed of nucleic acid which is surrounded by a protective protein layer. If a virus enters a ‘host cell’ it enables components to synthesise which cause replication.

An oral microbiologist carries out a series of tests to identify any of these infections. He or she may also be involved with training or education.

These specialists tend to work in university laboratories and are focussed upon the role of micro-organisms in a range of dental diseases. These include tooth decay and periodontal gum disease.

An oral microbiologist will have a minimum of 5 years specialist training as well as Membership of the Royal College of Pathologists (MRCPath).

Dental Specialists Guide Index:

---

• Dental and maxillofacial radiology Specialists
• Dental public health Specialists
• Endodontic Specialists
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology Specialists
• Oral medicine Specialists
• Oral microbiology Specialists
• Oral surgery Specialists

• Orthodontic Specialists
• Paediatric dentistry Specialists
• Periodontic Specialists
• Prosthodontic Specialists
• Restorative dentistry Specialists
• Special care dentistry Specialists

---