Biomaterials Practicum – GTSL Topic: Manipulation of Cold-Cured Acrylic Resin

On Tuesday, 10 September 2024, fifth-semester undergraduate students of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) participated in a Biomaterials practicum focusing on the manipulation of cold-cured acrylic resin. This activity took place in the Preclinical Lab, 5th Floor, OECF Building. The practicum was supervised by Prof. Dr. drg. Widowati, MS, and Prof. Dr. drg. Widjijono, SU. Their expertise and guidance were invaluable as students worked with acrylic resin, a crucial material in dentistry. This hands-on experience aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which ensures access to quality education.

Before the practicum, students were required to adhere to specific rules to ensure a safe and productive learning environment. Punctuality was emphasized, and students were expected to arrive on time wearing lab coats with name tags and group identification. These practices help instill discipline and prepare students for professional standards in healthcare.

Additionally, students with long hair were required to tie it back to maintain safety and hygiene in the laboratory. Such regulations help maintain a professional atmosphere and ensure that all participants can focus on their learning without distractions.

Tools and Materials Required:

1. Stellon pot
2. Measuring pipette
3. Gypsum mold in a metal flask
4. Small spatula/crown mess
5. Large press
6. Cellophane plastic
7. Small brush
8. Stopwatch
9. Gloves
10. Mask

Practicum Procedure:

1. Apply CMS liquid evenly on the upper and lower gypsum molds using a small brush and let it dry.
2. Measure 2.5 mL of monomer liquid using a pipette (or as per manufacturer instructions) and pour it into the stellon pot.
3. Gradually add 5 grams of polymer powder into the stellon pot until fully wetted by the monomer. Start the stopwatch and let the mixture sit in a closed container.
4. After 5 minutes, open the stellon pot lid and check if the dough phase is reached. If not, close the lid again. Record the time when the dough phase is reached and stop the stopwatch.
5. Place the acrylic resin dough into the mold until full, then cover it with water-moistened cellophane plastic. Close the upper and lower metal flasks but not too tightly. Perform initial pressing using the large press until metal-to-metal contact is achieved (the upper and lower flasks are fully closed).
6. Open the flask, remove the cellophane plastic, and quickly remove excess acrylic resin from the mold using crown mess (within 30 seconds). Close the flask again and perform the final pressing, then transfer the flask to the small press. Leave it in the small press at room temperature for 10 minutes.

This practicum is a significant step toward improving access to quality education for dental students. With experienced faculty supervision and a focus on practical skills, students will be better prepared to enter the workforce and contribute positively to the healthcare sector.

Contributor: Sri Pujiatun | Author: Al Haqi Insan Pratama