
Mangaluru, Oct 10, 2026: Prof. Dr. Mithra N. Hegde, Principal of A. B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Nitte (Deemed to be University), delivered the prestigious Prof. Hari Parkash Memorial Oration at the 36th Annual Conference of the Indian Society for Dental Research (ISDR) / International Association for Dental Research (IADR) – Indian Division, held in October 2026.
Titled “Predict, Prevent, Preserve: Salivary Biomarkers and the Future of Precision Dentistry,” the oration highlighted the potential of salivary biomarkers in early disease prediction, prevention and personalised dental care.
The presentation emphasised the role of saliva as a non-invasive diagnostic tool that can advance precision dentistry and strengthen evidence-based oral healthcare. The oration also honoured the enduring legacy of Prof. Hari Parkash and his contributions to dental research and education.
With 35 years of teaching experience, Prof. Dr. Hegde has authored around 450 publications in national and international indexed journals, with significant contributions to dental research, particularly in dental caries research and salivary diagnostics.
Her research achievements include five completed major externally funded projects, four ongoing major projects and nine published patents. She has also contributed to dental education through textbooks and handbooks and delivered 102 scientific presentations at national, international and state-level conferences.
The recognition underscores her contributions to dental science and highlights the growing importance of research and innovation in advancing precision dentistry.