THE VENUE
13h30 UG: Ms N Lovell: Effects of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate relative to dental students
13h45 UG: Ms M Bonnesse et al.: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Dentistry Students towards Sexual Harassment.
14h00 UG: Ms Tamiya Saffodien et al.: Dental photography practice among dental students
14h15 UG: Mr S Ntuli et al.: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Final Year Oral Hygiene and Dental Students at the University of the Western Cape on Managing Special Needs Patients
14h30 UG: Ms N T Daniels et al.: Patients' perceptions and attitudes towards receiving dental treatment from students at the University of the Western Cape
14h45 – 15h00
Postgraduate Competition
Session Chair: Prof TS Roberts
15h00 PG: Dr T Vedan: Design of the Oral Medicine South Africa registry to facilitate surveillance of oral lesions and conditions in SA: Pilot results (2010-2022)
15h15 PG: Dr Mai Ahmed: A Retrospective Review of Periodontitis at Tygerberg Oral Health Centre
15h30 PG: Dr Abubaker Mohamed: A comparison of conventional root canal sealers with ones that use green synthesised nanoparticles for antimicrobial activity: A systematic review protocol
15h45 Community: Prof A Bhayat: Oral health status and anthropometrical measurements of children in an informal settlement in Pretoria, South Africa
16h00 – 16h45
Competitions Poster Session
Session Chair: Dr Faheema Kimmie Dhansay
16h45 – 17h30 AGM
18h00 for 18h30 PROF ROBERTS DEAN
GALA DINNER (All registered delegates are invited) MC: DR A JEFTHA AWARD – ANNOUNCEMENTS UG and PG, Community, Pameijer, Congress Photos
TEA
Summary & highlights
The Chair of the LOC opened the congress, Prof TS Roberts, on the morning of September 7. The president of the IADR welcomed the delegates. The Rector of the University of the Western Cape, Prof Tyrone Pretorius, delivered his welcome address.
2. Key Highlights:
2.1. Scientific Presentations and Research:
Keynote address:
Our first keynote speaker, Professor Barathrum gave an excellent presentation on Research outputs: Excellence, Relevance, and impact. During this session, he took us on a historical journey of the University of the Western Cape and highlighted the need for relevant and impactful research in our political and social history context. Prof. R. Barathrum
Professor Ramashwar (Ramesh) Bharuthram was appointed as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at the University of Western Cape (UWC) in January 2008 with a portfolio that managed Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, and Community Engagement. He retired, together with the Vice Chancellor Prof Brian O'Connell, at the end of 2014. He was immediately appointed Executive Special Projects in the Office of the new Vice Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, until December 31 2017 to assist with transitioning to a new executive management team. Prof Bharuthram obtained his PhD in Theoretical Plasma Physics from the University of Natal in 1980. He has served tertiary education in South Africa for 54 years in several capacities - 29 years at the University of Durban-Westville from Laboratory Assistant to Head of the School of Physics, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor as Director of research at the M L Sultan Technikon (1998-2002) and the University of Natal/KwaZulu–Natal (2002- 2005). Thereafter, he held the position of Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Witwatersrand (2006-07). He has been a visiting professor at the Central University, Hyderabad, India and the University of California, San Diego, USA. In 1980-81, he was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of California, Los Angeles, USA, and in 1986 and 1991 he was a postdoctoral fellow at Ruhr Universität Bochum, Germany as a recipient of the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship. He has published more than 160 research articles in journals of international standing on fluctuation phenomena in laboratory, space, and astrophysical plasmas. This has been achieved through research collaborations with scholars from Algeria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Belgium, China, etc. He has served as a Member of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) Commission C16: Plasma Physics. Prof Bharuthram has served on several national panels, including for the
National Research Foundation (NRF), the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) and the Department of Higher Education & Training. He was on the NRF's Review Reference Group for the National Centres of Excellence review and has served on an international Panel that reviewed the Water Research Commission. He served on the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) Board from 2014 to 2018. During his term as the DVC (Academic) at the University of the Western Cape, he was appointed by the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Naledi Pandor, as the Head of the Astronomy Desk from 2012 – 2014. In that capacity, he crafted and oversaw the process that led to developing South Africa's longterm strategic plan for multi-wavelength astronomy, which included human capacity development in astronomy. In 2015, Prof Bharuthram became the first South African to be awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for Exceptional Leadership in Research Management by the DST and the Southern African Research & Innovation Management Association (SARIMA), since his retirement. Professor Bharuthram has been appointed Emeritus Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of the Western Cape and has served as a Consultant to the National Research Foundation.
Professor Barathrum: Research outputs: Excellence, Relevance, and impact
Keynote address:
Prof Gluckman spoke particularly to our clinicians and delivered an informative session on Partial Extraction Therapy.
Dr H Gluckman
Dr Gluckman is an internationally renowned dental practitioner, Implantologist, author and lecturer who has been in the industry for nearly three decades. After completing his dental training at the University of Witwatersrand in 1990, he spent a few years in general practice before taking on a four-year degree in Oral Medicine and Periodontics at the University of Stellenbosch, which he completed with Distinction (Cum Laude). Eager to shape the industry and help others expand their knowledge, Dr. Gluckman became instrumental in developing the University of Stellenbosch and the University of the Western Cape's postgraduate Implantology Diploma. Dr. Gluckman recently completed his Titled "Partial Extraction Therapy: Past, Present and Future" passing Summa Cum Laude at the University of Szeged in Hungary, under the supervision of Professor Katalin Nagy. A passion for implant training and enhancing the talents of professionals worldwide In addition to running his full-time private practice in Cape Town, Dr. Gluckman is also the co-founder and director of the Implant and Aesthetic Academy (IAA). To date, it is the only private postgraduate training facility. Over the last 15 years, the Implant and Aesthetic Academy has become an internationally renowned institution that offers accredited postgraduate dental courses throughout the year. Moreover, The IAA is recognised by Dentalxp as an accredited training facility for their online externship certificate programmes. He also serves as one of the IAA's senior lecturers. Dr. Gluckman specialises in immediate implant placement/immediate load, soft tissue aesthetics and periodontal plastic surgery. He is also interested in autogenous bone augmentation, especially bone harvested from the palate (a new technique published by Dr Gluckman in 2015) and three-dimensional bone augmentation. Furthermore, he is an expert in and thought leader on Partial Extraction Therapy, including Socket Shield, Pontic Shield (a procedure he developed and published in 2016) and Submerged Root Technique (the topic for which he achieved his PhD).
Other notable achievements and career highlights:
- Diplomat of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
- Previous author of a monthly Implantology corner for the South African Dental Journal
- Past President of the South African Society for Dental Implantology
- Board member of the Southern African Association of Osseointegration (SAAO)
- Served as the secretary of the South African Society of Periodontics (SASPIO)
- Associate of the College of Medicine and Dentistry of South Africa and many other
Invited speakers:
Emeritus Professor Anwar Suleman Mall: The Gut-Brain Connection
Prof Mall started by saying that owing to the extensive neural networks within the gut and its pivotal role in the Gut-Brain axis (GBA), it has earned the nickname 'the second brain'. Firstly, he briefly introduced us to the gut's structure, function and microbiome. He continued to inform us about the importance of mucous. Finally, he introduced us to some pioneering research endeavours on the gut's potential influence on various mental disorders, spanning depression to anxiety. He concluded that the gut-brain axis represents a vital connection in human biology, influencing our physical and psychological well-being. Thoroughly understanding this connection, from its complex makeup to the significance of mucus production and microbial presence, can guide upcoming medical studies and treatment approaches.
Prof Malik Maaza: Importance of research collaboration in Africa.
Prof Maaza is the Chair, UNESCO UNISA ITL-NRF
Africa Chair in Nanosciences & Nanotechnology, joint staff of the University of South Africa (UNISA & the National Research Foundation of South Africa (NRF).
Prof Maaza introduced the audience to the various opportunities funded by the UNESCO and iTHEMBA
LABS-National Research Foundation. He gave us a comprehensive overview of green research, women in science and encouraged collaboration between the Faculty of Dentistry and ITHEMB LABS.
Dr. C Nyirenda: Artificial Intelligence Applications in Dentistry from 2020-2023
Dr Nyirenda started his interaction by explaining artificial intelligence and the difference between machine and deep learning. He continued to describe the potential application of AI in various dental disciplines, including patient management systems. He also emphasised that AI in dentistry does not come without its challenges, including initial and ongoing training, validation, and improvement of AI algorithms. Further concerns are those associated with patient confidentiality and who will be accountable for unintended outcomes arising from mistakes or adverse events due to AI technology. Another concern is the transparency of algorithms to make clinical diagnoses and treatment recommendations. Therefore, AI may not be ready to be fully integrated into Dentistry.
Dr Vicky Nembaware: The African Genomic Medicine Training Initiative
Dr Nembaware introduced the African Genomic Medicine Training Initiative to our participants. The African Genomic Medicine Training Initiative (AGMTI) educates and trains African genomic medicine professionals. It teaches African healthcare workers, researchers, and policymakers genetics for healthcare and research. The primary mission of the AGMTI is to help African healthcare systems use genomic information for better outcomes, disease prevention, and research. The organisation provides genomic medicine training, workshops, and courses. These programmer cover genetics,
genomics, bioinformatics, and genomic ethics. The AGMTI partners with international organisations, universities, and research institutions to deliver high-quality training and materials. Capacity Building: AGMTI aims to train healthcare professionals to use genomics in clinical practice. In addition to training, AGMTI may sponsor genomic research projects necessary for African healthcare. Ethics: AGMTI stresses the relevance of ethics in genomics, especially human subject research. Impact: The effort aims to improve African healthcare by helping people use genomic information to investigate and treat hereditary illnesses.
In this vein, the Faculty of Dentistry launched the African Society of Dental and Craniofacial Genetics during this session.
Opportunities and Challenges".
The undergraduate and postgraduate competitions were dominated by students from the University of the Western Cape with Dr Thesan Vedan winning the postgraduate competition with his submission entitled "Design of the Oral Medicine South Africa Registry to Facilitate Surveillance of Oral Lesions and conditions in SA: Pilot results (2010-2022)" The undergraduate competition was won by the group Bonnesse et al with their submission entitled "Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Dentistry Students towards Sexual Harassment." Another UWC postgraduate student, Marwa Neji, won the Palmjer award and Prof A Bhayat won the community award with his submission entitled "Oral health status and anthropometrical measurements of children in an informal settlement in Pretoria, South Africa".
2.2. Workshops and Continuing Education:
There were two hands-on workshops, including one Ethics workshop by Prof S Singh and another laser workshop run by Dr V Karec.
2.3. Networking Opportunities:
The congress provided ample opportunities for networking and collaboration among attendees. Social events, including the gala dinner, allowed participants to connect with colleagues and establish valuable professional relationships.
2.4. Industry Exhibition:
A diverse range of dental products and technology companies participated in the exhibition, showcasing cutting-edge equipment and materials.
Attendees had the chance to interact with industry representatives and explore the latest innovations in the dental field.
3.Scientific Breakthroughs:
Several notable scientific breakthroughs and research findings were presented during the congress, highlighting the ongoing advancements in dentistry. Some key areas of focus included:
Dental educators' perspectives of competencies required for the 21st Century dental graduate: A qualitative study.
Learning Style Preferences of Oral Health Sciences Students at the University of the Witwatersrand
Oral health awareness and behavioural factors of caries-free patients
High-risk behaviours pertaining to oral disease and malignancies by HIV status at a tertiary hospital in South Africa
Effects of the covid-19 vaccine mandate relative to dental students
Dental photography practice among dental students
Patients' perceptions and attitudes towards receiving dental treatment from students at the
University of the Western Cape
A Retrospective Review of Periodontitis at Tygerberg Oral Health Centre
A comparison of conventional root canal sealers with ones that use green synthesised nanoparticles for antimicrobial activity: A systematic review protocol.
Dental management considerations for young patients with oligodontia
Establishment of Oral Oncology Clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry (UWC)
Fracture of mandibular zirconia full-arch implant-supported prosthesis: a case report.
Morning and afternoon microbial load of air in various sections of a Dental Faculty
In total there were 38 abstracts which were delivered by oral presentations or as posters.
4.Conclusion:
The 52nd meeting of the SA division of the IADR at Krystal Beach Hotel was a resounding success, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation in dental research and oral health. Attendees left the congress with valuable insights, new connections, and a deeper appreciation for the advancements shaping the future of dentistry. This event continues to play a pivotal role in advancing oral healthcare worldwide, and its success is a testament to the dedication and passion of the dental community.
As dentistry continues to evolve, the IADR Congress remains a vital forum for sharing knowledge and driving progress, and we look forward to the future breakthroughs that will emerge from the collaborations and discussions sparked at this event.
We are grateful to have had the opportunity to host this event. Although we have had resounding success, the organisation of the conference did not come without its challenges. These include:
1. The limited time for organising the conference
2. The LOC needed to start from scratch without any prior knowledge or assistance from predecessors
3. Financially, we were disadvantaged because four other congresses were running in the same period; therefore, sponsorships were challenging to source.
How can we improve in the future?
1. Garner support within and outside institutions for the organisation of such a significant event
2. LOC members must be encouraged to share information
3. Handing over information from previous meetings is important
4. Encourage and enhance undergraduate research and make competitions more robust.
Department Reports
1. Highlights from the Department of Community Dentistry (Jul – Sept 2023)
Scientific events
- Faculty Research Day: The department had multiple students research projects being presented at the annual Faculty of Dentistry Research Day (15 August 2023) . The group supervised by Dr Ranpersad won their respective competition.
- South African Dental Association (SADA) National congress: Most of the department attended this congress from 25 – 28 August which was held in Cape Town. Prof Smit was on the Scientific Organizing Committee for the congress. Two parallel sessions for Community Dentistry was on the programme and four staff members from the Department presented oral presentations. Prof S Naidoo, Dr K Ramphoma, Dr N Rampersad and Dr N Singh. The faculty also was well presented in the other Specialist and Special interest groups at the congress.
- IADR SA division congress (Cape Town): Most members of the department attended this congress in the first week of September and the Undergraduate Research Projects from the department presented their research at the congress. The group supervised by Dr Ranpersad won their respective competition.
- PHASA Congress (In Gqeberha): Prof Smit, Dr Ramphoma and Dr Rampersad attended the conference with the theme- ‘Transforming research translation- reimagining public health evidence, policies, and practice’. Dr Ramphoma is the current chair of the Dental Public Health Special Interest Group under PHASA. The SIG collectively with Community Dentistry colleagues from all the 4 dental schools wrote an abstract for a 90-minute organized session (workshop) with the title: Re-imagining oral health care systems in South Africa: The role of leadership, policy reform, integration, and collaborative approaches policy reform, integration, and collaborative approaches. Department staff also presented posters and oral presentations at the congress.
Outreaches: Our department had finalized the programme for the year.
- Khayelitsha Ikamva Labantu 14 & 21 July
- Elgin in collaboration with Transnet Phelophepa Train 2 & 3 Sept
- Hout Bay 16 Sept 2023
One of our staff members, Dr Faheema Kimmie-Dhansay presented at the Institutional CIECT Colloquium: Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT) hosted on Wednesday 19 July 2023.
o Graduation: One staff member, Dr Faheema Kimmie-Dhansay graduated at UWC with a PhD (Dental Public Health)
2. Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
Division Paediatric Dentistry
CHE has fully accredited the proposed specialisation in Paediatric Dentistry. This report has been forwarded to the HPCSA and we are awaiting further communication regarding the formal registration process.
R1.2 million has been raised through the Rotary Club of Bellville to establish a dedicated specialised paediatric surgery at Tygerberg Oral Health Centre. This is the first phase of Faculty’s commitment towards optimising training and service rendering for paediatric and special needs children. The launch date of this surgery is 20 October.
MSc (Paediatric Dentistry) students have expanded their training and service delivery to Red Cross Children’s Hospital so that this platform can be better utilised for postgraduate training by providing holistic dental care, oral health education and promotion.
3. Department of Craniofacial Biology, Pathology & Radiology
Teaching & Learning
- Undergrad modules are being wrapped up and assessments are being consolidated.
- RAT200 – Preclinical block took place in Semester 2, Assignments and Assessments completed – Support and intervention supplied to flagged students together with Dr
Lundie
(Consent given for images to be used)
- RAT300 – Assessments completed and will be writing exams in November – exam papers to be loaded 10 October – Intervention and support supplied to flagged students with sessions from Dr Lundie
- RAD200 – Assessments completed and will be writing exams in November – exam papers to be loaded 10 October – Intervention and support supplied to flagged students with session from Dr Lundie
- RAD400 completed didactic lecturing, students wrote Final Exam on the 2nd October, marking is underway
- RAD812, didactic lecturing is near completion, students to write final in November
- RAD824 – Final Seminar 3 to be completed by PG student and completing her final exit level exams in November
- Both MSc Postgraduate students in Radiology - Intention to submit mini-thesis for graduation April 2024
- Students experiencing challenges have been identified and contingency measures are in place for further assistance.
- Postgrad modules are progressing without any difficulties.
- ORB 811 is being updated with the assistance of Dr Lundie
- FOR 811, FOD 611 and FOD 612 are being updated with the assistance of Dr. Lundie
- Guest lecture from King’s College
- Dr. S. Chandler gave a guest lecture to the Honors and MSc students from the Anatomy department of Stellenbosch University.
- Dr. S. Chandler is the co-supervisor of an MSc student registered at UCT.
- Dr M Aborass is the clinical coordinator of the oral oncology clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry UWC.
Research
- The ‘Research Chair’ project has been registered.
- Project of the postdoc student has received ethics approval and sample collection continues.
- 3 new PhD students have registered.
- 4 new MSc students have registered.
- LOCAL CONFERENCES
o IADR-SA congress hosted (7, 8 September)
▪ Prof Roberts appointed Chair of the LOC
▪ Dr Sudi, Dr Roomaney, Prof Chetty on LOC
▪ Dr Kabbashi session chair
▪ Dr Temilola- Judge
▪ 10 accepted abstracts from the department:
▪ M Chetty, I Roomaney, K Beshtawi, Kabbashi, Y Chothia, S Moosa. Enamel
Renal Syndrome: Dental, Renal and Genetic Findings. International Conference of Human Genetics. Cape Town, South Africa: 22-26 February 2023. (Poster)
▪ Roomaney, IA., Kabbashi S., Ramkissoon R., Julyan JC., Chetty M., 2023. Dental management considerations for young patients with oligodontia.
IADR-SA 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023.(Poster)
▪ Kabbashi, S., Roomaney, IA., Walters, J., Ramkissoon R., Chetty, M., 2023.
Skeletal disorders with increased bone density: Dental Management implications. IADR-SA 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023. (Poster)
▪ Chandler S., Walters J., 2023. Forensic Odontology in the Era of Improved Technology. IADR 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023. (Poster)
▪ M Negi, S Mulder Van Staden, H Holmes. Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita.
IADR 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023. (Poster).
▪ M Aborass, T Roberts, M Chetty. Establishment of oral oncology clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry(UWC). IADR 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023. (Oral presentation).
▪ Mai Ahmed, F Kimmie-Dhansay, Anthea Jeftha. A retrospective review of Periodontitis at Tygerberg Oral Health Centre. IADR 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023. (Poster).
▪ Mai Ahmed, F Kimmie-Dhansay, Anthea Jeftha. A retrospective review of Periodontitis at Tygerberg Oral Health Centre. IADR 2023: 52nd Meeting of the International Association of Dental Research- South African Division, Cape Town 7-9 September 2023. (Oral presentation).
▪ Dr Suvarna Indermun: Attended IADR-SA 52nd Scientific Meeting, 7-8th September 2023, Gordon's Bay
▪ Dr Indermun Invited Speaker at the Straumann Women In Dentistry Event, 12th August, Topic: "Radiology: At the Root of Everything"
o PathReD
o SADA
- INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES
o 49th ACBICON 2023
▪ Prof Chetty was an invited speaker.
▪ Dr Van Zyl - Digital poster presentation at ADEE Liverpool in August 2023
International Virtual Student Exchange - Benefits, Challenges, and the Future. K Quick , K Rener-Sitar , P Berthold , T Kim , T Van Zyl , and N Myburgh. University of Minnesota, USA; 2 University of Ljubljana & University Medical Center Ljubljana, Slovenia; 3 University of Heidelberg, Germany; 4 University of Western Cape, South Africa
M Aborass, M Chetty. Periodontitis: Associated with Preeclampsia. IADR Egypt section, African Health Excon in June 2023. (Oral presentation)
M Aborass, M Chetty. Periodontitis and its association with Preeclampsia: 14th International Congress of Human Genetics, Cape Town 22-26 February 2023(poster).
Dr Suvarna Indermun: IADMFR World Tour Congress (International Association of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology), Brussels, 6-8th July 2023. Two abstracts presented: (1) From Stab To Scan: A Radiographic Case Series Of Maxillofacial Knife Trauma (S. Indermun, J. Walters), (2) Tiny Teeth, Big Impact: The Consequences Of Chemotherapy On The Developing Dentition After Treatment Of Neuroblastoma (S. Indermun)
- PUBLICATIONS
o Ebrahim, L., Shaik, S. (2023). Case – Calcification of the epiglottis. South African Dental Journal. 28(3), p.164. [Online]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v78i03.16272
o Simpson, J., Ebrahim, L. (2023). Mönckeberg arteriosclerosis. South African Dental Journal. 78(6), pp.324-325. [Online]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v78i06
o Roomaney, I.A., Kabbashi, S., Beshtawi, K., Moosa, S., Chothia, M.Y. and Chetty, M., 2023. Case report: Enamel renal syndrome: a case series from sub-Saharan Africa.
Frontiers in Oral Health
o Indermun, S., Shaik, S., Nyirenda, C., Johannes, K. and Mulder, R. (2023). “Human examination and artificial intelligence in cephalometric landmark detection—is AI ready to take over?,” Journal of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, https://doi.org/10.1259/dmfr.20220362
o Roomaney, I.A., Kabbashi, S.,Chetty, M. 2023. Bridging the Gap between Omics Research and Dental Practice, with a focus on Africa. BDJ
o Mahlangu T., Chandler S., Sudi S., 2023. Embracing Technology for improving dental records and record-keeping in the Republic of South Africa. A review. SADJ - In press
Other news
- African Society of Dental and Craniofacial Genetics registered.
- Establishment of oral oncology clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry UWC( June 2023).
- Dr T van Zyl – Continuing with the THENSA/Dsi PhD modules as only nominee from UWC
-
- Dr T van Zyl – Certificate received in UWC Postgraduate Thesis Management Training
- Dr. S. Chandler is currently collaborating with the following institutions:
o Forensic Pathology Services of the Western Cape.
o Victim Identification Centre from the SAPS FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORY, WESTERN CAPE.
o Anatomy department of Stellenbosch University
o In the process to collaborate with Stellenbosch University on a research project.
- Dr. S. Chandler completed the CREDE Good Clinical Practice: Beginner Course
- Dr. S. Chandler attended the DNA Forensic Workshop and the 3rd DNA Forensic Symposium
- Dr Walters attended Career Management series for academics (August 2023)
- Dr M Aborass completed the PCR and real-time PCR Training Course (August 2023)
- Dr M Aborass attended the Research Data Management course
- Dr M Aborass completed the Molecular Techniques workshop
- Dr M Aborass attended the 2D/3D image analysis with Amira software webinar
- Dr M Aborass completed the Career Management Series for Academics Workshop
- Dr M Aborass completed the Higher Education's Digital Transformation Workshop
- Dr Mai Ahmed attended the 2D/3D image analysis with Amira software webinar
- Dr Mai Ahmed attended Flow Cytometry course at UWC (August 2023).
- Dr Mai Ahmed attended the PCR and real-time PCR Training Course (August 2023).
4. Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology highlights
Prof Amir Afrogheh presented at the Scientific Networking Workshop, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 09 May 2023.
Prof Amir Afrogheh was external examiner for the oral pathology module for BDS students, University of Nairobi, Kenya, June 2023.
Prof Amir Afrogheh was external examiner for the oral pathology module for oral medicine and periodontology registrars, University of Pretoria, June 2023.
Prof Amir Afrogheh “HPCSA PANELLIST FOR THE EVALUATION OF WITWATERSRAND UNIVERSITY (WITS)’S BDS UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME” March-April 2023
Prof Amir Afrogheh invited by SASPIO as a “SPEAKER AT SADA 2023 ANNUAL CONFERENCE” 25 th August 2023. Speaking on:- HPV-positive cancers of the head and neck & Oral white mucosal lesions, discussion of selected cases and an approach
Prof Amir Afrogheh is Member of the Discipline Advisory Committee for the PathReD Congress August/September 2023
Dr Johan Opperman presented at the PathReD Congress 2023. 31 st August 2023. Title: “An overview of odontogenic cysts”
Prof Amir Afrogheh presented at the PathReD Congress 2023. 31 st August 2023. Title: “An overview of odontogenic tumours”
Dr Julandi Alwan presented at the PathReD Congress 2023, 31 st August 2023. The young pathologist seminar.
Dr Johan Opperman appointed as an observer for the MDS oral pathology examination July2023.
Dr Johan Opperman attended “Oral Oncology Conference 2023: African Perspectives on Omics”, 11 July 2023.
Dr Johan Opperman presented at IAOP – 21 st International Congress of Oral Pathology and Medicine in Taiwan, August 2023.
Dr Julandi Alwan attempted the FCPath part II written examination in July 2023.
Dr Julandi Alwan attended “Oral Oncology Conference 2023: African Perspectives on Omics”, 11 July 2023.
5. Department of Prosthodontics
Undergraduate matters
- Second semester assessments still to be completed for this semester
- Students to return to clinics after final exam till end of November
- Postgraduate
END611 and END612: Students still continuing on-line and via email. END612 will have contact sessions on 25 to 27 October
- Staff Achievements
Saadika Khan: Nomination for Best Established Researcher - DVC R & I
Conference attendance
National:
IADR – SA : Presentations
Authors Title
Dr Yasmin N Ibrahim, Prof Saadika Khan & Dr F Karjiker
Marcelle Cupido, Riaan Mulder, Nazreen Layloo, Bashier Kathree
Riaan Mulder, Ronel Maart, Winnifred Asia, Rozan le Roux, Lesca Loubser, Thashan Naidu.
.Ronel Maart, Riaan Mulder, Winnifred Asia, Sadika Khan
Sune Mulder, Riaan Mulder
The Effect of Different Types of Smoking on Teeth and Nanocomposites
Morning and afternoon microbial load of air in various sections of a Dental Faculty.
Assessing the ease of use of a biohazard disposal technique: Pouch Technique
Student perspectives of infusing digital technology in preclinical Prosthetic technique course
IL-1 genotype association with a diagnosis of periodontitis: in vivo study
Riaan Mulder Cost analysis of toothpaste versus tablets.
Nabeelah Abdurahman
Ronel Maart
Abubaker Mohamed
Nazreen Layloo, Razia Adam, Pedro Abrantes, Vanessa Jooste, Robyn Belford, Faheema Kimmie
The Fit and Accuracy of rests of Conventional and 3D Printed Removable Partial Denture Frameworks: Preliminary results
Dental educators’ perspectives of competencies required for the 21st Century dental graduate: A qualitative study.
A comparison of conventional root canal sealers with ones that use green synthesized nanoparticles for antimicrobial activity: A systematic review protocol
Exploring early childhood caries (ECC) risk factors: A cross-sectional study in the Western Cape
Authors: Nazreen Layloo,
- IADR Attendance:
Achmat Dyason, Carmen Benjamin, Zintle Putuma, Celeste Palanyandi, Nasiema Royker
CM Saayman:
Attended Benefit of Deep Shape in Endodontics with Clinical Case Discussions to Illustrate the Benefit of the ProTaper Ultimate System
Monday, July 31⋅7:15 – 10:00pm - NOMADS online
Attended Endodontic Society of South Africa Study Club Presentations Monday, August 7⋅7:15 – 9:15pm NOMADS online
Attended SADA Congress 1 day attend; Saturday, August 26 CTICC
International
AFREPEN (Malawi): A Community Partnerships as a vehicle for Interprofessional Education- Ronel Maart (virtual)
Publications
Parker R, Mulder R, Keanly C. Cuspal deflection of teeth restored with bulk fill flowable composite resins, with and without fiber-reinforcement and evaluated by Micro-computed Tomography. MethodsX. 2023 Jul 27;11:102302. doi: 10.1016/j.mex.2023.102302. PMID: 37577165; PMCID: PMC10413345.
RMJMM Kair, R Mulder. COMPARATIVE IN VITRO STUDY OF SELECTED PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF ACTIVA, CENTION N AND VITREMER (2023). Int J Paediatr Dent, 33: 4-203. https://doi.org/10.1111/ipd.13076
Indermun S, Shaik S, Nyirenda C, Johannes K, Mulder R. Human examination and artificial intelligence in cephalometric landmark detection-is AI ready to take over? Dentomaxillofac Radiol. 2023 Sep;52(6):20220362. doi: 10.1259/dmfr.20220362. Epub 2023 Jul 3. PMID: 37427581; PMCID: PMC10461256.
Delport, R., Dreyer, A., Maart, R., Sharif, A. M., Nekaka, R., Turner, A., & Wolvaardt, J. (2023). Undergraduate research-a tale of three African institutions. African Health Sciences, 23(2), 743-52.
Maart, R. D. (2023). Dear Managing Editor. South African Dental Journal, 78(04), 179-179. Do we need to reconsider competencies for dental graduates for the 21st century ?
6. Department of Oral Medicine & Periodontics
Teaching and Learning
MP hosted the Faculty multidisciplinary meeting on 18 August 2023. At the meeting the SOP for multidisciplinary cases were tabled by Prof Myburgh. Prof Chetty shared opportunities as Faculty Research Chair and will share the associated protocol which outlines the aims and scopes of the grant that was received. Three cases were jointly discussed between OMP, Prostho and Ortho registrars. A spreadsheet was developed to track cases and shared on the drive to all postgraduate students and staff who treat patients. The next multidisciplinary meeting will be on 20 October 2023 in lecture A1.
University of the Western Cape. Private Bag X1. Tygerberg 7505. South Africa.
Research
- Prof Holmes presented as working group leader at OPMDay Conference Antwerp, 30 and 31 Aug 2023.
- - “EHealth tools dedicated to monitoring of patients with OPMD” in a COST action that will investigate the management and prevention of oral potentially malignant diseases and oral cancer. This is a joint initiative with the European Union.
- Prof Holmes, Dr Jeftha and Dr Vedan presented posters at OPM Day Conference Antwerp, 30 and 31 Aug 2023: The description of diagnosed cases of Oral Epithelial Dysplasia at a tertiary diagnostic centre in Cape Town, South Africa (Poster 1)
- Design of the Oral Medicine South Africa registry to facilitate surveillance of oral lesions and conditions in SA: Pilot results (2010-2022) (Poster 2)
-A full report has been sent to Dentistry Research Committee as well as DSI, who funded the above travel.
- IADR 52nd, SA division 2023; PG competition was won by Dr T Vedan (MDS OMP student) and runner up was Dr M Ahmed, who presented her M research conducted as a M student in Periodontology.
- SADA Conference 2023: Prof Holmes presented Teledentistry tool: VULA to the SASPIO registrants
- Dr Sune Mulder Van Staden convened the annual Women in Implant Dentistry (WIN) Breakfast meeting on 12. August 2023, in her capacity as ITI SA WIN Ambassador, at the same conference Dr Muzan Abdalla, a third year MDS student in OMP presented on Oral mucosal lesions.
- Dr Carl De Villiers presented on the pitfalls of digital implant planning at the Faculty Research Day.
Community engagement
1. The department ( Dr’s Isaacs and Scholtz, Mrs’ Dhaya and Simons) continues screenings at paediatric and adult endocrinology clinics.
Internationalization
-Prof Holmes and Dr Jeftha visited the dental faculty of UGhent on Friday 1 September 2023. The prospect of UG student exchange was discussed and minutes thereof forwarded to Umesh Bawa and Prof Razia Adam to facilitate ongoing agreements and arrangements.
- Prof Holmes will be hosting colleagues from Tromsa Dental School on 11-13 October 2023. These discussions will include research opportunities with Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial and oral surgery, as well as potential student exchange programs. A proposed program has been emailed to all stakeholders.
7. Department of Oral Hygiene
Community engagement
▪ Special Needs Oral Care project at the Glenbridges School
▪ Dr Naidoo is currently engaged in the Special Needs Oral Care project at the Glenbridges School in the Western Cape. Every Wednesday, staff and BOH3 students provide oral health services to special needs children and the teachers/caregivers. The Faculty mobile clinic as well as the Colgate mobile unit contribute to resourcing service provision.
A website for this program was launched on 18 July 2023.
Ms Hassan-Yengopal attended an outreach program as part of the Public Oral Health Forum NAC member. As part of Oral Health Month, they educated approximately 120 pregnant women at Tygerberg Maternity Ward on oral health for themselves and for their new-born babies.
Ms Viljoen conducts weekly visits to the Oncology Paediatric ward at Tygerberg Hospital where she engages in oral health promotion activities with the children and parents.
Mrs Viljoen and BOH II students visited Paarl School for Cerebral Palsy learners for three consecutive weeks where children from various levels with challenges were included in oral health education and brushing programs.
International collaboration
As part of the established MOU with Artevelde Hogeschool in Ghent, 2 students from Artevelde, Ms Phebe De Langhe and Maud Dhont, have shown an interest in visiting next year. There is an opportunity for one of UWC’s Oral Hygiene students to participate in the Artevelde exchange butfunding poses a challenge. The Artevelde coordinator has proposed a two-month internship from 29th of January until 31th of March 2024 for 200 hours in total. Activities could include clinical observations at the Tygerberg clinic, Mitchells Plain clinic and oral health promotion activities.
Conferences and the media
Ms Natalie Gordon, Ms Cader, Ms Ndwandwe, Ms Hassan-Yengopal and Ms Ajam attended the 52nd IADR SA CONFERENCE held from 07 – 08 September in Cape Town. Gordon, NA. presented on “POHC in the PHC Approach-a Document Analysis”. South African Division of the IADR, 52nd Scientific Meeting, 7th -8th September, 2023.
Ms Viljoen, Mr C Gilbert, Ms Hassan-Yengopal and Prof Brijlal attended the SADA congress in August in Cape Town.
Mrs Viljoen presented on a radio interview with RSG on the prevention of ECC.
Publications 3rd Quarter
Gordon, N., Brijlal, P., Rayner, C., Abdullah, M. and Funa, M., 2023. Teaching the educator: an impetus for oral health promotion in early childhood development, International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 00:1–8.
8. Department of Maxillofacial & Oral Surgery
Two conferences took place during this period. Both the South African Society of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgeons (SASMFOS) conference, as well as the International Association of Dental Research –SA Division took place in September 2023. These meetings were well represented by academic staff and postgraduate students of the department. Some of registrars attended an AO CMF dissection course in September.
This unit at Groote Schuur Hospital is running well with the addition of a dental assistant (March 2023) to the team, as well as a new chair (June 2023). Furthermore, the combined MaxFac/ENT, and Paediatric MaxFac clinic at Red Cross Hospital (RXH) appears to be gaining traction.
The unit at Tygerberg OHC has had a new nursing sister (September 2023), and an Admin Clerk appointed to the clinic. This has improved the service offered to patients and improved the efficiency in all spheres within the clinic (undergraduate and postgraduate) teaching and training.
Concluding Remarks
The Faculty of Dentistry may be one of the smallest faculties at UWC but the number of activities, newsworthy items, publications, awards and general good news in the last three months is indicative of the new culture and environment that is being built at Dentistry. I remain positive about our future and we remain on track in our mission to become global players in teaching, training and research.
University of the Western Cape. Private Bag X1. Tygerberg 7505. South Africa.
Your sincerely
Prof V Yengopal Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, UWC
University of the Western Cape. Private Bag X1. Tygerberg 7505. South Africa.
