Yogyakarta, 20 May 2025 – The Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), recently held a closed dissertation defense for the Doctoral Program in Dental Medicine. The defense took place at the FKG UGM Meeting Room, featuring Rieza Zulfahmi Taftazani as the candidate, who successfully defended his dissertation titled "Development of an Adaptive Toothbrush Model to Improve Oral Health in Children with Down Syndrome (A Study at a Special Needs School in Bontang)"before a panel of examiners.
The examination was chaired by Prof. Dr. drg. Widowati Siswomihardjo, MS, and attended by a panel of multidisciplinary examiners reflecting the collaborative approach of the candidate’s research. They included Prof. dr. Mei Neni Sitaresmi, Sp.A(K), Ph.D. as Promoter; drg. Lisdrianto Hanindriyo, MPH, Ph.D. and Prof. drg. Sri Kuswandari, M.S., Sp.KGA., Ph.D. as Co-Promoters; Ir. I Gusti Bagus Budi Dharma, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., IPM., ASEAN Eng; Prof. Dr. drg. Aloysia Supartinah Santoso, SU, Sp.KGA(K); Dr. drg. Yayah Sopianah, M.Kes from Poltekkes Kemenkes Tasikmalaya; Prof. Dr. Willyanti Soewondo, drg., Sp.KGA, Subsp. AIBK (K) from Universitas Padjadjaran; and Dr. Arnela Nur, S.SiT, MDS.c from Poltekkes Kemenkes Aceh.
This dissertation addresses a critical issue in oral health for children with special needs, particularly those with Down syndrome, through the development of an adaptive assistive device. The adaptive toothbrush innovation was designed to facilitate toothbrushing adapted to the motor and cognitive limitations of these children.
The examiners commended Rieza for the soundness of his methodology, the practical contribution of his work, and the collaborative approach taken throughout the study. Promoter Prof. dr. Mei Neni Sitaresmi expressed pride in Rieza’s perseverance, commitment, and academic maturity throughout his doctoral journey, emphasizing that this graduation marks the beginning of a new responsibility as an academic and researcher capable of collaboration and meaningful contributions to teaching and community service.
In a reflective speech, Rieza conveyed his gratitude to all who supported his journey, especially his family and mentors. He also recalled the difficult moments, including the passing of his beloved mother, which became a turning point in his doctoral pursuit.
This closed defense marks an important milestone in Rieza Zulfahmi Taftazani’s academic career. His successfully defended dissertation offers theoretical contributions to pediatric dentistry and is highly relevant for practical application in addressing the needs of children with special needs. It is hoped that this adaptive toothbrush innovation will serve as the foundation for developing more inclusive and sustainable health assistive devices in the future.
Author: Shinta | Contributor: Suci Agustina | Photo: Doc. of Doctoral Program in Dental Science
