The Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) participated in a workshop at the Material Dentistry Laboratory, Faculty of Dentistry, Thammasat University, Thailand, on 18 January 2024. The workshop aimed to deepen understanding of the production of fluoride gel with a concentration of 5000 ppm and to measure fluoride levels in commercial toothpaste. The event was attended by 13 participants from UGM, including lecturers and dental students.
The workshop was led by graduate students conducting research on fluoride 5000 ppm at Thammasat University. This fluoride gel is crucial for preventing dental caries in geriatric patients undergoing chemotherapy. “The development of this fluoride gel is vital because products with 5000 ppm fluoride are hard to find in Thailand and are expensive to import,” noted one of the students.
During the workshop, participants learned to prepare 1.1% sodium fluoride gel with a concentration of 5000 ppm by combining ingredients such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC) and 70% sorbitol solution. They also practiced measuring fluoride ion levels in toothpaste using a fluoride ion-specific electrode. “This training enhances practical skills that are essential for dental students,” said Agnes, a dental student from UGM.
This workshop supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing practical training that enhances participant competencies. It also strengthens international collaboration to improve the quality of dental education and healthcare services. The outcomes of the workshop are expected to be applied to enhance the overall dental health quality of the community.
Contributor: drg. Rahmadani Puspitasari, MDSc | Author: Diva Luthfiana
