Thurs., Nov. 5, 2026
TBD (Lecture)
Room TBD
Speaker: Stefan Ruhl, DDS, PhD
Robert J. Genco Distinguished Speaker Series
Recommended for: Everyone
Saliva is a complex biological fluid still widely underestimated in its importance for oral and systemic health. This lecture will explore the molecular composition, evolutionary biology, and protective functions of saliva, with emphasis on host–microbe interactions, pellicle formation, innate immunity, and oral microbial colonization. Drawing from genomic, proteomic, and microbiome research, the presentation will discuss how saliva influences dental caries, periodontal disease, mucosal health, and microbial ecology. Attendees will gain clinically relevant insights into the diagnostic potential of saliva and its emerging role as a key determinant of oral health and disease.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the major biological functions of saliva in maintaining oral homeostasis.
- Recognize how salivary proteins and glycoproteins shape microbial colonization and biofilm formation.
- Examine the role of saliva in caries prevention, periodontal health, and mucosal protection.
- Explore current research on salivary genomics, proteomics, and microbiome interactions.
- Appreciate the potential of saliva as a diagnostic fluid for oral and systemic diseases.
Stefan Ruhl, DDS, PhD is a professor and chair of Oral Biology in the School of Dental Medicine at the University at Buffalo. Ruhl joined the UB faculty in 2007 from the University of Regensburg, Germany, where he was a Professor of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology. He is a past President of the Salivary Research Group within the International Association for Dental Research (IADR). In 2015, he was named IADR Salivary Researcher of the Year, and in 2020, received the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Salivary Research, the University at Buffalo Exceptional Scholar Award for Sustained Achievement, and was elected as Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). In 2023, he was elected as a Fellow of the International College of Dentists, and in 2024, a Fellow of the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR). His scientific projects have been funded through the NIDCR since 2010. He is Editor in Chief of Clinical Oral Investigations, and Associate Editor of the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) Foundational Science. From 2022 until 2023, he served as Interim Dean of UB’s School of Dental Medicine.
Further information:
Dr. Ruhl (or an immediate family member) is not associated with, employed by, nor consults for any manufacturer, supplier, or retailer of dental instruments or materials.
The University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Office of Alumni Relations and Professional Engagement designates this activity for 3 continuing education credits.
