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Preface

Since the deciphering of the genetic code, scientists have gained enormous insight into how cells and tissues function. It is now evident that our understanding of the structure and function of oral cells and tissues must be based on knowledge of subcellular mechanisms common to most cell types. More than ever, the basic sciences are essential in oral biology, helping us to understand the nature of oral cells and tissues in health and disease. This book seeks to bring our understanding of the basic biology of the oral cavity to bear on the daily clinical practice of dentistry. To accomplish this, whenever possible, the chapters conclude with sections on the basic science and clinical correlations of the information presented. It is my hope that individuals seeking an overview of the cellular components of the oral cavity, whether they are dental students or researchers new to the biology of the oral cavity, will find this book to be a useful framework for their studies.

Keeping up with the flood of new information and defining the book’s boundaries were constant challenges. Nevertheless, I have made every effort to make the text as comprehensive and as straightforward as possible for students at any level. I was inspired to write this book because of the pleasure I get from learning about new discoveries and from knowing that there are students who, although anxious to study the purely clinical aspects of their education, see and appreciate the profound beauty of the cells and tissues of the oral cavity.

Several individuals deserve acknowledgment for their inspiration and assistance during preparation of this book. My teachers at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, especially Drs Paul Goldhaber, George Szabo, and the late John Nalbandian, were instrumental in setting me on the path of academic dentistry and making study, research, and discovery a major part of my adult life.

Without the encouragement and support of Dean Barry Rifkin, along with the generous resources of Stony Brook University, writing this book would have been impossible. I must also thank Drs James Sciubba and Moon-II Cho for their encouragement and continued insistence that I not give up this project.

I am also grateful to all the scientists and publishers who graciously permitted me to adapt and/or reproduce their illustrations for this book.

Finally, I am most grateful to my spouse and best friend, Jeanne. Without her help and support I would not have been able to complete my professional education, nor lead a life in academia. I am also grateful to my six children for the love they have shown me.