Students and lecturers from the Pediatric Dentistry Specialist Program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), successfully organized a feeding aid development activity for children with cleft lip at the UGM Prof. Soedomo Dental and Oral Hospital on Monday, 11 November 2024. This initiative aimed to assist children with cleft conditions in meeting their nutritional needs, thereby supporting their overall health and development.
During the event, a team of pediatric dentistry residents, under the guidance of Prof. Drg. Sri Kuswandari, MS, Sp.KGA(K-KKA), developed a specialized feeding aid called NasoAlveolar Molding (NAM). This device is designed to help reshape the gums and enhance the feeding process, which is crucial for children with cleft lip conditions. "NAM is an important innovation that allows children with cleft lip to have better opportunities in meeting their nutritional needs," explained Prof. Sri Kuswandari
Cleft lip is a congenital condition that affects a child’s ability to eat, speak, and socially interact. Children with this condition often face significant challenges that put them at risk of malnutrition and developmental delays. With the introduction of the NAM device, these risks can be minimized, offering new hope for children to lead healthier and more productive lives.
This activity not only focused on producing the NAM device but also provided a valuable hands-on learning opportunity for the residents. "We hope this initiative enhances our competence as future pediatric dental specialists in providing optimal care for children with special needs," said Drg. Arif Rahman.
Beyond its health benefits, the program also highlighted the importance of education for children with cleft conditions. Improved health allows these children to participate more easily in educational environments, aligning with efforts to promote inclusive and equitable quality education.
The development of these feeding aids represents a concrete step by FKG UGM in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 4 (Quality Education). By providing innovative solutions for children with cleft conditions, this initiative contributes to reducing child mortality due to malnutrition and increasing access to education for children with disabilities.
Contributor: drg. Arif Rahman Setyawan | Author: Diva Luthfiana Lathifah
