Jakarta, 26-27 October 2024 – The 3rd Oral Medicine Scientific Symposium was held in Jakarta, themed “Optimizing the Management of Oral Diseases in Daily Practice.” The symposium aimed to provide a platform for dentists and oral medicine specialists to share knowledge, experiences, and the latest research findings. This event sought to enhance professional competencies in managing various oral diseases effectively and efficiently while contributing positively to the overall oral health of the community.
The symposium featured renowned speakers, including Prof. Dr. drg. Rahmi Amtha, Sp.PM (K), Rahmat Hidayat Syah, Apt, MSc (a healthcare influencer), and Dr. drg. Rochman Mujayanto, Sp.PM. Each speaker shared their insights and expertise, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of oral health management.
Dr. drg. Rochman Mujayanto, Sp.PM, an alumnus of the Doctoral Program in Dental Science at Universitas Gadjah Mada, presented on the topic of HIV Counseling and Testing in Dental Practice. “This topic was chosen because HIV/AIDS remains a global concern, including in Indonesia. Dentists play a crucial role in the early detection of HIV, as 60% of people with HIV are diagnosed through the presence of opportunistic infections in the oral cavity,” he explained.
In his presentation, Dr. Mujayanto outlined the steps for identifying opportunistic HIV infections in the oral cavity, pre-test HIV counseling procedures, interpreting HIV-related oral conditions, post-test HIV counseling, and adherence counseling for antiretroviral therapy (ARV). He emphasized that both general dentists and dental specialists could conduct HIV counseling and testing.
The principles of HIV counseling include consent, confidentiality, counseling, accuracy, and connection. By adhering to these principles, dentists can effectively contribute to identifying new HIV cases and collaborate with other healthcare professionals in HIV management.
The symposium aimed to encourage collaboration between dental professionals and other healthcare providers, enhancing the overall response to HIV/AIDS within the community. By equipping dentists with the necessary knowledge and skills, the event sought to empower them to take active roles in public health initiatives related to HIV.
The 3rd Oral Medicine Scientific Symposium represents a significant step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. By addressing oral health issues and integrating HIV awareness into dental practice, the symposium is expected to contribute to improving public health in Indonesia.
Authors : Dr. drg. Rochman Mujayanto, Sp.PM, Suci Agustina, S.Pd., Al Haqi Insan Pratama
Editor : Shinta
