Oral Microbiology

Most of us suffer from dental decay at some point in our lives. Decay is actually caused by plaque, which builds up on the surfaces of our teeth. This plaque contains millions upon millions of bacteria, which react with the food we eat to create acid on the teeth. It is this acid which erodes our teeth, creates cavities and causes decay.

The bacteria in our mouths and on our teeth are also a prime cause in chronic gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. By studying this bacteria at a microscopic level, scientists hope to be able to learn more about it and discover new and innovative ways to reduce tooth decay and gum disease.

What does the job involve?

An oral microbiologist studies the bacteria in the oral cavity. There are many different types of oral bacteria and they exist in our mouths as a diverse community. Oral microbiologists will usually be employed in research laboratories, institutions and universities.

As well as studying bacteria, oral microbiologists will also study oral and facial infections, caused by viruses and fungi. They will research possibilities for causes, treatments and cures.

What qualifications do you need?

Becoming an oral microbiologist means building the skills, expertise and in-depth knowledge required to move into a very specialist field of expertise. You must first become qualified as a dentist by spending four years studying for a degree in Dentistry. Your post-graduate study will then involve spending at least five years with the Royal College of Pathologists.

An important element in any research career is to stay abreast of current ideas, thinking and published work. Therefore, in this sort of role, it is likely that your learning, training and professional development will continue throughout your career and you may go on to gain further, relevant qualifications.

What are the career prospects?

Research institutions will usually offer oral microbiologists the potential to move up into roles that give them more responsibility and more project ownership. You will be able to build your team, people and project management skills, while at the same time, maintaining a high level of technical input into projects.

Alternatively, once you have built up the required level of expertise, you may choose to move into an academic role that gives you the opportunity to teach and develop the next generation of oral microbiologists.