UNAIR NEWS – Two students from Universitas Airlangga’s Faculty of Dental Medicine (FKG) have once again achieved outstanding success at the 15th International Dentistry Scientific Festival (DSE). Mohammad Iqbal and Sherina Fatwa Imanu secured first place in the Research Article category at this prestigious event organized by the Student Executive Board of FKG Universitas Brawijaya.

In an interview with UNAIR News, Iqbal revealed that their research focused on innovation titled:  Antibacterial Activity of Secang (Caesalpinia sappan) in Inhibiting the Vital Structure of Enterococcus faecalis: In Silico. Their study introduced a natural extract from Secang wood as a promising candidate for endodontic irrigation fluid.

Their research highlighted that the key compounds in Secang wood extract have substantial antibacterial effects against Enterococcus faecalis. They found that the active components in Secang can effectively inhibit the bacterium’s vital structure.

“We proposed an innovative root canal irrigation fluid and Endoseal material based on the natural extract of Secang wood. This innovation can be utilized by dentists and specialists in root canal treatments,” stated Iqbal.

“Innovation in irrigation fluids is crucial. Currently, existing irrigation fluids are inadequate in inhibiting Enterococcus faecalis. This bacterium is a significant factor in root canal treatment failures and primary root canal infections,” Iqbal elaborated.

The competition journey was challenging. Starting in the even semester, they initially had low expectations due to less-than-ideal preparation. However, upon being named finalists, they were motivated to maximize their full paper composition and prepare thoroughly for the in-person presentation.

“I was busy with clinical rotations at FKG and preparing for CBT and OSCE exams, while Sherina was on a semester break out of town. Despite these challenges, we strived to deliver our best performance during the grand final, addressing the judges’ questions effectively,” he explained.

However, participating in this international event was a rewarding experience for them. “The event was very engaging and provided invaluable experience. We not only competed but also exchanged ideas with participants from various countries,” he said.

By taking part in this competition, Iqbal hopes their research can be further developed in the medical field. “We hope this research can advance through in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials. We also aim for this research to be patented and commercially produced as an irrigation and Endoseal material,” he expressed.

Author: Aidatul Fitriyah

Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia

Source : https://unair.ac.id/en/unair-fkg-students-win-1st-place-in-international-research-competition/