The Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) remains committed to delivering a high-quality and inclusive education system that produces professionals in the field of dentistry.
The Bachelor of Dentistry and Dentist Professional Education Programs have successfully achieved an “Excellent” accreditation and international accreditation from ASIIN, meeting the standards of the European Quality Assurance Register for Higher Education (EQAR).
Dean of FKG UGM, Professor Suryono, emphasized that the faculty continues to innovate in creating a curriculum that is not only relevant to the latest scientific developments but also inclusive for students from diverse social and cultural backgrounds.
“Through a series of Curriculum Reform Workshops, FKG UGM has designed a more adaptive, flexible learning system aligned with future needs,” said Dean Suryono at the 77th FKG UGM Anniversary Open Senate Meeting at the Margono Soeradji Auditorium of FKG UGM, Wednesday (Mar. 3).
Dean Suryono mentioned that 22 curriculum updates have been implemented by the Undergraduate Dentistry Program, the Dentist Professional Education Program, the Periodontics Specialist Program, the Pediatric Dentistry Program, and the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Program through the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) approach.
Through this initiative, FKG UGM reaffirms its commitment to shaping professional, competent dental practitioners ready to contribute to society, regardless of their background.
This curriculum renewal is not just an academic change but a tangible step toward supporting more equitable and sustainable access to education.
To support the quality of education and produce competent dental graduates, FKG UGM collaborates with 143 partners, including 30 international and 113 domestic ones.
In the field of research, FKG UGM continues to encourage faculty members to develop research aligned with their areas of expertise.
In 2024, there were 39 FKG UGM Research Grants, and 11 projects received funding from the Science and Technology Grant from the Ministry of Higher Education.
“To date, FKG UGM has produced 15 products in collaboration with local and national industries,” said the dean.
Some of these products include Dental Silkbon, Propasdent, Tooth Whitening Paste, and Gama Dentical XR.
In terms of international publications, FKG UGM has produced 82 publications. Regarding intellectual property achievements, there are 64 titles, including patents, copyrights, industrial designs, and trademarks.
Orthodontist Andriani, a member of the Indonesian Dental Council, in her keynote speech at this year’s FKG UGM Anniversary, highlighted the benefits of using digital technology in dental services.
She shared national data showing that healthcare workers, including dental practitioners, at primary healthcare facilities still do not meet the standards.
Amid the shortage of dentists in Indonesia, practicing dentists are also faced with advancements in digital technology, specifically Digital Dentistry, which aids in the diagnosis, planning, and execution of dental procedures.
“Digital Dentistry aims to improve accuracy, efficiency, and comfort in dental treatments,” she explained.
The benefits of Digital Dentistry include: first, higher accuracy, as digital technology improves diagnostic precision and procedural outcomes; second, time efficiency, as certain procedures, such as crown creation, can be completed in a single visit; and third, patient comfort, which minimizes discomfort during procedures.
“Increased patient education, visual displays can enhance patient understanding and treatment options,” she added.
Along with the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, according to Andriani, these technologies will further enhance Digital Dentistry.
The rise in accessibility to teledentistry and more affordable tools will make dental care more accessible in various regions.
However, challenges include the initial investment costs for digital equipment, and dental practitioners and clinic staff must be trained to operate these new technologies efficiently.
Author: Kezia Dwina Nathania
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photographer: Donnie