Irwin D. Mandel was an American biochemist

Biochemist

Biochemists are scientists who are trained in biochemistry. Typical biochemists study chemical processes and chemical transformations in living organisms. The prefix of "bio" in "biochemist" can be understood as a fusion of "biological chemist."-Role:...

 and dentist

Dentist

A dentist, also known as a 'dental surgeon', is a doctor that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. The dentist's supporting team aides in providing oral health services...

 who was known for his reaearch on the biochemistry of saliva

Saliva

Saliva , referred to in various contexts as spit, spittle, drivel, drool, or slobber, is the watery substance produced in the mouths of humans and most other animals. Saliva is a component of oral fluid. In mammals, saliva is produced in and secreted from the three pairs of major salivary glands,...

. He was a founder of the preventive dentistry movement and established the first department of preventive dentistry at an American university, the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine

Columbia University College of Dental Medicine

The Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, often abbreviated CDM, is one of fourteen graduate and professional schools of Columbia University...

. In 1985 he became the first recipient of the Gold Medal for Excellence in Dental Research by the American Dental Association

American Dental Association

The American Dental Association is an American professional association established in 1859 which has more than 155,000 members. Based in Chicago, the ADA is the world's largest and oldest national dental association and promotes good oral health to the public while representing the dental...

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