On Tuesday, 10 September 2024, fifth-semester undergraduate dental students participated in a Biomaterials Practicum focused on Manipulation of Addition Silicone Elastomer Impression Material. The activity was held at the Preclinical Lab, 5th floor, OECF Building. The objective was to train students in manipulating and accurately determining the setting time of addition silicone impression material using different mixing methods.
The mixing methods used during the practicum included: Regular Type with Hand Mixing Method and Medium Viscosity Type with Automixing Method. The Hand Mixing Method required materials such as: Paper pads, spatulas, plastic impression trays, glass plates, stopwatches, gloves, and cutters.
Meanwhile, the Automixing Method required: Mixing guns, mixing tips, plastic impression trays, glass plates, stopwatches, and cutters.
This practicum was supervised by experienced lecturers, Prof. Dr. drg. Siti S., MKes., and drg. Dyah Anindya W., MDSc., ensuring that students adhered to safety protocols and understood the importance of precision in material manipulation.
Before starting, students were required to follow lab regulations, including wearing lab coats, tying up their hair, and arriving on time. This practicum played a crucial role in preparing students for their future roles as dental professionals.
This activity also supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, emphasizing quality education. By providing access to high-quality education and facilities, this practicum helps students develop the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in dentistry.
Furthermore, affordable dental materials were emphasized, aligning with broader SDG goals. By equipping future dental professionals with the necessary skills to handle cost-effective materials, this program aims to enhance accessibility to dental healthcare in communities.
With the guidance of lecturers, students acquired essential practical skills, reinforcing the importance of quality education in dentistry. This hands-on learning experience bridged the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges in the dental field.
Contributor: Sri Pujiatun | Author: Al Haqi Insan Pratama
