The use of digital technology continues to transform the landscape of dental practice, particularly in implant surgery procedures. The Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) introduced the implementation of a CAD/CAM-based digital workflow in dental implant placement through a Digital Dentistry Workshop titled Digital Workflow for CAD/CAM Guided Implant Surgery, held Wednesday (January 28, 2026).
The workshop, conducted in Room 114 (Technician Room), Dental Learning Center (DLC) Building, 1st Floor, highlighted the integration of digital scanning technology, surgical guide design, and 3D printing–based manufacturing into a unified and precise clinical workflow.
Head of the Preclinical and Skill Lab at FKG UGM, drg. Ivan Arie Wahyudi, M.Kes., Ph.D., emphasized that digital transformation is not merely a trend but a necessity in modern dental education and services.
“Digital approaches allow for more accurate, measurable, and safer surgical planning. Students and faculty must understand this workflow comprehensively—from diagnosis to clinical execution,” he stated during the opening.
FROM DIGITAL DESIGN TO CLINICAL APPLICATION
During the practical session, participants simulated surgical guide design using Atomica software. The design was then realized through Shining 3D printing machines, demonstrating how additive manufacturing technology supports implant placement accuracy.
Pada sesi praktik, peserta mengikuti simulasi desain surgical guide menggunakan perangkat lunak Atomica. Desain tersebut kemudian diwujudkan melalui mesin 3D printing Shining, memperlihatkan bagaimana teknologi manufaktur aditif dapat mendukung ketepatan pemasangan implan.
Elite intraoral scanners utilizing photogrammetry technology were also introduced. This technology is considered highly relevant for implant treatment due to its ability to generate highly accurate spatial data. The use of face scanners was presented as part of a holistic approach to esthetic and functional planning.
STRENGTHENING ACADEMIC COMPETENCE
The workshop was attended by faculty representatives from various departments at FKG UGM, including Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, and Dental Biomaterials. The activity is expected to strengthen alignment between academic instruction, technological mastery, and clinical needs.
Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources of FKG UGM, drg. Margareta Rinastiti, M.Kes., Ph.D., Sp.KG(K), stated that mastering digital technology is a strategic investment for dental education institutions.
“The integration of CAD/CAM technology and guided surgery not only improves service quality but also enhances graduate competitiveness at national and global levels,” she said.
TOWARD SAFER IMPLANT PRACTICE
Interactive discussions reflected strong enthusiasm for implementing guided implant surgery in both educational and clinical settings. A data-driven digital approach can reduce operator error and increase treatment predictability.
FKG UGM aims for digital dentistry not to remain a one-time training initiative but to become an integral part of the curriculum and ongoing competency development—addressing the growing demands for precision, efficiency, and patient safety in dental practice.
Reporter: Andri Wicaksono, Photographer: Fajar Budi Harsakti
