The use of synthetic materials in educational laboratories often generates non-clinical waste that is difficult to manage and requires significant procurement costs. On the other hand, dental students need realistic learning aids to properly understand clinical procedures. These challenges encouraged the PKPLP Learning Center Grant Team of the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) UGM, led by Beti Indrawati, AMTG, an Educational Laboratory Technician at FKG UGM, to present a creative and sustainable solution.
Starting from the difficulty of finding materials that resemble abscess soft tissue, Beti and her team developed an abscess incision model using used gloves from practical sessions. Previously, the laboratory used red wax material that was brittle, hard, and not elastic. “Red wax is too rigid and easily damaged. We wanted a material that is more flexible and realistic, while also making use of existing laboratory waste,” explained Beti (2/11).
The model fabrication process is carried out through a series of simple yet hygienic steps. The used gloves are first washed and sterilized with a 30 percent chlorine solution for 30 minutes at a ratio of 1 ml chlorine to 900 ml water. After soaking, the gloves are dried using a hair dryer, then the tips are cut off, filled with shampoo, and tied into a rounded shape to produce a soft texture resembling a fluid-filled abscess. “The shampoo functions to provide a liquid sensation inside, so when it is incised, it feels similar to the actual procedure,” she explained.
This innovative model has been used by dental students, OSCE participants, and professional dental education programs in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at FKG UGM for clinical skills training. With simple materials, the model is more economical, environmentally friendly, and reusable. “We want to prove that innovation does not have to be expensive. Even from used materials, we can produce educational tools that are useful,” Beti added.
The team has not stopped there. They are currently developing an advanced version of the abscess incision model based on 3D printing technology. The base of the model, which was previously made of gypsum, will be replaced with filament material that is stronger and more durable. “With the 3D-printed model, it will not be easily damaged. It will be efficient because it can be used repeatedly without the need to remake it,” she explained.
Through this innovation, Beti and her team not only optimize the learning process but also contribute to reducing laboratory waste and strengthening research by educational staff within the FKG UGM environment. The team has also prepared Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for model replication and is preparing Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) registration so that this innovation can be widely used across various dental education institutions in Indonesia.
“We hope that this work from the laboratory can inspire other educational staff to innovate. Innovation does not have to be complex or expensive; what matters is its impact on learning and the environment,” Beti concluded.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti | Photo: Beti Indrawati
