A microorganism capable of causing disease is called a?

The term that describes a microorganism capable of causing disease is "pathogen." Pathogens include a variety of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, all of which have the potential to invade a host and disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to disease. Understanding this term is crucial in the context of infection control, as it highlights the importance of maintaining strict hygiene standards to prevent these organisms from causing illness in both patients and dental staff.

While "bacterium" and "virus" refer to specific types of pathogens—one being a single-celled organism and the other a type of infectious agent—neither term encompasses all disease-causing microorganisms. "Contaminant" generally refers to any unwanted substance that may compromise the cleanliness of an environment or tool but does not specifically denote a disease-causing organism. Therefore, identifying a microorganism as a pathogen is essential for recognizing its potential to lead to infections and the measures needed to control them.