Oral Microbiology

Dr. Williams currently leads the Oral Microbiology Group based at the School of Dentistry, at Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK. Since Dr. Williams' first degree (Cardiff University), he has worked in the pharmaceutical industry, food microbiology and as an academic researcher. Having completed a PhD at the School of Dentistry in Cardiff on the immunopathogenesis of oral candidosis, Dr. Williams' research has continued within Cardiff University and primarily focuses within the field of Clinical Microbiology with an emphasis on studies involving microbial biofilms. Dr. Williams' research encompasses investigating biofilm susceptibility to antimicrobial agents, expression of virulence factors such as hydrolytic enzyme production, adhesion, and microbial modulation of innate immune responses. Of particular interest has been research into the development of biomaterials (e.g. silicone rubber, acrylic, titanium) to inhibit biofilm formation on medical devices. Dr. Williams is a previous recipient of the Senior Colgate Award (British Society for Oral and Dental Research) and the International Hatton Award (The International Association for Dental Research).

Contents: Glossary; Introduction; The mouth as microbial habitat; The resident oral microflora; Acquisition, adherence, distribution and metabolism of the oral microflora; Dental plaque; Dental caries; Periodontal diseases; Acute bacterial infections; Chronic oral infections (including infections in medically compromised patients); Oral viral infections; Oral fungal infections; Human immunodeficiency virus and the acquired immune deficiency syndrome; Antimicrobial therapy and prophylaxis for oral infections; Cross-infection control; Index.