The Guest Lecture addressed the topic “Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment as a Holistic Public Health Approach: Reducing Treatment Burden and Promoting Oral Health Equity.” The Guest Lecture discussed the interceptive orthodontic approach as part of a holistic public health strategy. The material highlighted the importance of early intervention to reduce the treatment burden and promote oral health equity.
The activity was opened and moderated by drg. Siska Ella Natassa, MTD, M.DSc. The event continued with remarks by the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. drg. Ika Andryas, M.Sc. In her remarks, she welcomed Prof. Dr. Rozita Hassan and expressed appreciation for the speaker's presence. She also emphasized the importance of international academic collaboration as part of efforts to broaden perspectives and strengthen the relationship between the Faculty of Dentistry USU and higher education institutions at the global level.
In the main session, Prof. Dr. Rozita Hassan delivered the material interactively and comprehensively. The scientific presentation was followed by a question-and-answer session and discussion, providing participants with an opportunity to exchange perspectives and deepen their understanding of the application of interceptive orthodontic treatment in the context of public health. The participants' enthusiasm was further reflected in the quiz session, which served as the closing part of the learning activities. As a form of appreciation for the contribution and knowledge shared, the activity concluded with the presentation of a certificate and souvenir to the speaker by Dr. drg. Aini Hariyani Nasution, Sp.Perio, Subsp.RPID(K), Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Internationalization of the Faculty of Dentistry USU.
Through this activity, the Faculty of Dentistry USU continues to promote an open learning environment that embraces global perspectives, strengthens knowledge exchange, and builds international collaboration that contributes to the development of dental education and practice.
This Guest Lecture also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being: Supporting improvements in health and well-being through strengthening knowledge of the early prevention and management of oral health problems.
SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoting quality education through the exchange of knowledge, experience, and academic perspectives with speakers from international higher education institutions.
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: In line with discussions on oral health equity, particularly efforts to promote more equitable access to oral health and dental services.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening cross-border academic partnerships and networks through collaboration between the Faculty of Dentistry USU and Universiti Sains Malaysia.
