New edition of a highly popular textbook on oral microbiology suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate dental students, research workers, and a wide range of clinical dental professionals Successfully describes the complex relationship between the resident oral microbiota and the host in health and disease Retains a unique ecological approach to the subject which provides a clear set of principles to explain whether the microbiota will have a beneficial or an adverse relationship with the host at a particular site Exploration of the biological and clinical significance of the oral microbiota in the form of a biofilm on dental and mucosal surfaces Completely updated throughout by a new author team! Self-assessment questions in each chapter allow readers to monitor their progress Updated design with 'Key Points' throughout aids learning Reflects the impact that the genomic era has had on the field Expanded sections on infection control as well as therapeutic and prophylactic antibiotic use New sections on the benefits of the resident oral microbiota and on current concepts of factors driving dysbiosis in periodontal disease New chapter on the emerging role of oral microorganisms in systemic diseases