The relationship between the permanent microbiome of the oral cavity and the host, both in health and disease, is complex. This work contributes to the understanding of the interactions between the oral microbiome, the host's defense mechanisms, and environmental factors.

Dentists, researchers, and students gain a comprehensive source of knowledge, a monograph that gathers the most authoritative and up-to-date scientific references on the health and diseases of the oral cavity. This Greek edition is based on the latest sixth edition of the original and includes the newest research developments.

Specifically, it reflects the impact of the genomic era on the field and the application of molecular biology techniques. These molecular approaches indicate the involvement of complex microbial communities in the etiology of oral diseases.

New sections on the benefits of the permanent oral microbiome to the host, as well as modern concepts regarding factors that lead to disturbances in ecological homeostasis in periodontal disease, are also included. A new chapter has been added on the emerging role of oral microbiota in systemic diseases, along with extensive discussions on modern views regarding the therapeutic and preventive use of antibiotics, as well as infection control.

The structure of the book has also been updated with the addition of "Key Points" throughout, facilitating learning.

• Sotiris Kalfas is a Full Professor at the School of Dentistry of AUTh. Eleftherios G. Kaklamanos is an Associate Professor at AUTh and at the European University Cyprus.