Inaugural Professorial Address of Prof. Dr. drg. Archadian Nuryanti, M.Kes. in Biomedical Dental Technology at FKG UGM
In her professorial inaugural speech at FKG UGM on April 7, 2026, Prof. Dr. drg. Archadian Nuryanti, M.Kes. emphasized the importance of shifting from curative treatment toward preventive care amid technological advancement and national dental health challenges.
Technological developments in dentistry are accelerating rapidly, ranging from smart biomaterials to artificial intelligence. Yet behind these advancements, Indonesia still faces unresolved fundamental problems in public dental health: high rates of dental disease and weak preventive approaches.
In her speech, Prof. Archadian stressed that dentistry must move beyond the old paradigm focused solely on repairing damage. “Treating teeth is not merely about filling cavities, but about preserving life,” she stated.
From Teeth to Life
For years, dental practice has largely focused on restorative procedures—filling or extracting damaged teeth. According to Archadian, this approach does not address the root of the problem.
From the perspective of biomedical technology, the oral cavity is viewed as the gateway to overall bodily health. Oral diseases are closely linked to systemic diseases, ranging from cardiovascular disorders to chronic inflammation.
As a result, the emerging approach has shifted from tooth-centered care to life-centered care , positioning oral health as part of broader efforts to maintain long-term quality of life.
Advanced Technology, Limited Access
Advances in biomedical technology have created major opportunities in disease diagnosis and prevention. The use of salivary biomarkers, for example, enables non-invasive early detection of various oral diseases.
In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being utilized to improve diagnostic accuracy and healthcare efficiency. The integration of clinical, genomic, and demographic data allows for more precise healthcare approaches.
However, implementing these technologies in Indonesia still faces significant challenges. Beyond infrastructure limitations, regulatory readiness remains insufficient.
Law No. 17 of 2023 concerning Health and Law No. 27 of 2022 concerning Personal Data Protection have indeed provided legal foundations. Nevertheless, issues such as algorithm transparency, technology certification, and patient data protection still require substantial strengthening.
Prevention as an Investment
The speech also highlighted the importance of preventive dentistry as a long-term health investment. Preventing dental caries, for example, is not only about preserving teeth, but also about preventing broader consequences for overall health.
In this context, simple actions such as maintaining oral hygiene and undergoing regular examinations become essential. However, public awareness regarding these practices remains low.
At the same time, healthcare systems still place greater emphasis on treatment rather than prevention.
Between Tradition and Innovation
The continued widespread use of traditional medicine (jamu) within society also became an important concern. Many people believe natural ingredients are safer, even though not all traditional remedies are fully supported by scientific evidence.
An integrative approach combining local wisdom with scientific research is viewed as a middle path worth developing.
Future Challenges
Technological developments, including AI, bring both opportunities and risks.Beyond ethical and privacy concerns, the readiness of healthcare workers to adapt to new technologies will become a crucial factor.
Cross-disciplinary collaboration between medical professionals and technology experts is increasingly unavoidable.
Redefining the Direction
The speech served as a reminder that technological advancement alone does not automatically solve healthcare problems.A shift in mindset is required—from focusing on repair to prioritizing prevention.Such efforts require support from all stakeholders, including government institutions, healthcare workers, and society at large.The oral cavity is the gateway to overall quality of life.
(Reporter: Andri Wicaksono | Photography: Dody Hendro Wibowo)
