Senate Quarterly Report, Faculty of Dentistry, October -December 2023
General
Dentistry Continues to make progress in Teaching, Training, Service and Research. With the focus on being a research -led institution, the Dean at UWC has led from the front in this regard. He has been ranked as the academic with the 2nd highest research output at UWC in 2023 (these are based on 2022 outputs).
This year should be even better as he has published 19papers. The publication list for Prof Yengopal in 2023 is as follows:
1. Mickenautsch S, Rupf S, Yengopal V. The composite quality score for the appraisal of prospective controlled clinical therapy trials in systematic reviews and its limits. Frontiers in Medicine. 2023;10.
2. Murererehe J, Malele-Kolisa Y, Niragire F, Yengopal V. Prevalence of dental caries and associated risk factors among People Living with HIV/AIDS and HIV uninfected adults at an HIV clinic in Kigali, Rwanda. Plos one. 2023 Apr 6;18(4):e0276245.
3. Mickenautsch S, Yengopal V. Allocation Concealment Appraisal of Clinical Therapy Trials Using the Extended Composite Quality Score (CQS-2): An Empirically Based Update (Protocol), PREPRINT (Version 1). Research Square. 2023.
4. Sodo PP, Malele-Kolisa Y, Moola A, Yengopal V, Nemutandani S, Jewett S. Exploring reasons why South African dental therapists are leaving their profession: A theory-informed qualitative study. Plos one. 2023 Oct 26;18(10):e0293039.
5. Sodo PP, Jewett S, Nemutandani MS, Yengopal V. Attrition of dental therapists in South Africa—A 42-year review. Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology. 2023 Jun;51(3):462-8.
6. Mickenautsch S, Yengopal V. A test method for identifying selection bias risk in prospective controlled clinical therapy trials using the I2 point estimate (Preprint).
7. Mickenautsch S, Yengopal V. Allocation concealment appraisal of clinical therapy trials using the extended Composite Quality Score (CQS-2)—An empirically based update. Frontiers in Medicine. 2023 Jun 15;10:1176219
8. Malele-Kolisa Y, Maposa I, Yengopal V, Igumbor J. Validation of the Child-Oral-Health-ImpactProfile among adolescents in Johannesburg: A cross-sectional study. African Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine. 2023 Oct 25;15(1):3993.
9. Mickenautsch S, Rupf S, Miletić I, Strähle UT, Sturm R, Kimmie-Dhansay F, Yengopal V. Inter-rater reliability of the extended Composite Quality Score (CQS-2). Frontiers in medicine. 2023;10.
10. Mickenautsch S, Rupf S, Yengopal V. Does a probiotic (L. reuteri) lozenge taken twice daily over 3 to 4 weeks reduce probing pocket depth in patients with chronic periodontitis after 3 months? A systematic review of clinical trials (Preprint). medRxiv. 2023:2023-05.
11. Mickenautsch S, Yengopal V. Accuracy of the I2 point estimate for testing selection bias risk in meta-analyses–a simulation study (Protocol).
12. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (November 2023). South African Dental Journal. 2023 Nov 1; 78 (10): 521-522
13. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (October 2023). South African Dental Journal. 2023 Oct 1;78(9):469-72.
14. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (September 2023). South African Dental Journal. 2023 Sep 1;78(8): 410-412
15. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (August 2023). South African Dental Journal. 2023 Aug 1;78(7):
16. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (June 2023).
South African Dental Journal. 2023 June 1; Vol. 78 (5): 258-260
17. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (May 2023).
South African Dental Journal. 2023 May 1;78(4): 207-210
18. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (April 2023).
South African Dental Journal. 2023 Apr 1;78(3):156-158.
19. Yengopal V. What’s new for the clinician–summaries of recently published papers (March 2023).
South African Dental Journal. 2023 Mar 1;78(2):101-103.
On the social and humanitarian side, the faculty was the first to take a public stand on the genocide that was happening in Gaza Palestine and our focus was on the deliberate targeting of health workers and facilities in Gaza. Our position statement is as follows:
STATEMENT ON KILLING OF ORAL HEALTH WORKERS IN GAZA, PALESTINE.
23 NOVEMBER 2023
The Vision of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of the Western Cape, is to become a global player in teaching, training and research. This vision warrants that the Faculty is aware of and responds to local
and global events that impact on the training, research and delivery of oral health services. It is within this context and our strong links to social justice, that we are alarmed at the unnecessary loss of life among oral health workers assisting in the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region of Gaza, Palestine. Additionally, the indiscriminate killing and/or injuring of civilians, especially defenseless women and children, which has drawn widespread condemnation from all parts of the world has also sparked outrage among our staff and students. The Student leadership has requested permission from the faculty to participate in peaceful protests to highlight their disdain and outrage of events causing so much of death and destruction among innocent civilians that have been caught up in war in Gaza, Palestine. Any loss of life among innocent civilians and health workers on either side cannot be condoned and we as a faculty stand firmly with the victims of this tragedy. We plead with global bodies such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization to urge the warring factions to respect the rules of conflict especially as it relates to civilians and health workers offering much needed care to innocent men, women, and children. Oral health is a fundamental human right and the targeting of oral health workers delivering much needed care in the affected areas is unacceptable and untenable in any civilized society. Our past history as a faculty and a university that stood up against injustice and gross human rights violations warrant that we cannot remain silent about this new phenomenon of indiscriminately targeting oral and general health workers and innocent civilians in conflict areas in Palestine. We urge our students and staff to participate in peaceful gatherings highlighting the issues raised here. We stand with our partner academic institutions in Palestine who are also being targeted in this conflict and we sincerely hope that common sense prevails especially when it relates to oral and general health care delivery to innocent civilians. We stand with our colleagues working under extremely dangerous conditions to deliver much needed emergency oral health care to the citizens of Gaza, Palestine. Yours Sincerely
Prof V Yengopal Dean, Faculty of Dentistry
University of the Western Cape South Africa
Email: vyengopal@uwc.ac.za
Deputy Dean Academic (Learning & Teaching)
A. ACADEMIC PLANNING / LEARNING AND TEAC
B. HING
1. Learning Support Sessions
Learning support sessions were arranged for all students in the second semester, and these were facilitated by the L+T specialist. The purpose of these sessions was to assist students with preparation for the assessments, especially end of year examinations. Module coordinators submitted the names of students deemed to need additional support to the L+T specialist and they were invited to attend these sessions. However, the sessions were open for all students across the two undergraduate programmes. Students were asked to indicate their specific needs regarding support as well as challenges they face. The sessions were held online initially, but F2F sessions from September to October were arranged during lunchtimes and/ or after hours. Module coordinators also provided valuable input.
2. Curriculum Development
A workshop was held on 25 October and the purpose of the workshop was 4-fold:
To introduce faculty staff to the UWC Innovation HUB, the projects that the HUB staff are involved with and to establish a relationship with the Innovation HUB team and explore future working relationships / possible projects. Possible projects between dentistry and the Innovation Hub were discussed and the use of AR/VR in the learning and teaching of students. Staff and students had the opportunity for a hands-on interaction with the equipment.
Feedback on the Block Teaching Model that was piloted in the EMS faculty. Prof Cherrel Africa presented the EMS experience. A follow-up discussion will be arranged with the director of APU. The faculty has been discussing the feasibility of introducing the block teaching model in the BDS programme.
Student Reflections on their learning and interaction with staff and modules. The environment that is created for students to learn and excel and to take cognizance of the mental health and wellness of students. Students must be empowered to make their voices heard.
Discussion on departmental clinical assessment of students, the use of rubriks and calibration of teaching staff. To move the emphasis from a quota driven system to competency-based assessments. Students had the opportunity to engage with all the rubriks from the various clinical departments.
3. Heltasa conference 24 – 26 October
Shining the light on interactive blended learning guides infusing pedagogic translanguaging: responsive, relevant and resilient curriculum innovations
Dr. Samuel Lundie presented on the Designing of Blended Learning Interactive Study Guides. The HELTASA Programme Development Team requested the Faculty of Dentistry at UWC to share their practices on the designing of blended learning interactive study guides. The webinar was scheduled for 28 November. The facilitators were Drs. Samuel Lundie, Carmen Gordon, Nicoline Potgieter and Prof. Nadia Mohamed.
4. Interfaculty workshop (dentistry and science) to discuss alignment between service level modules and clinical modules - 14 November.
To discuss the alignment of content between the service level (preclinical) modules presented by the Science Faculty and the clinical (Dentistry) modules. Module coordinators that took part in the discussions: Physics, Chemistry, Pharmacology, Human Biology, Oral Biology, Prosthodontics, Radiology, Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Periodontology.
Forge closer relationships between staff from Science and Dentistry
Explore co-teaching between the service level, pre - and clinical modules.
A follow up workshop was held on 1 February to continue with the discussions.
AFFAIRS
1. Student Health and Wellness
The timetable for 2024 will include dedicated times/ slots for students and staff to attend workshops on engagement, feedback as well as conflict management. Workshops (in collaboration with CSSS, HR) will be arranged as part of the faculty Implementation Plan of the Mental Health and Wellness Policy for both staff and students. Posters have been prepared with contact details of all the supporting systems at the UWC and these will be placed in areas frequented by students.
2. Election of Dental Students Faculty Council (DSFC)
The election of the senior class representatives (BOH and BDS) that will form part of the DSFC was completed in October. First year representatives were elected during the week of Orientation. The DSFC consists of 15 members, and they represent the eight undergraduate academic years across the two programmes. Five students from the DSFC attended the SRC Leadership Induction Programme from 4 to 7 December.
3. Student success statistics 2023
The pass rates for undergraduate students that presented for the end of year examinations ranged from 91% to 100%:
BOH I - 94%
BOH II - 93%
BOH III - 91%
BDS I - 96%
BDS II - 98%
BDS III - 97%
BDS IV - 97%
BDS V -100%
4.International students visiting the faculty
The department of Oral Hygiene is hosting 2 students from the University of Artevelde from February to March.
Faculty is hosting 4 students from OSLO for the period February until May.
Four BDS IV students visited Japan as part of the Sakura Science exchange programme.
Deputy Dean Research (Prof Razia Adam)
On-site writing sessions were introduced with the support of the Division of Research and Postgraduate studies and the Faculty mentor. Three Shut up and write sessions were held during the month of November
o 8 November 2023: facilitators: Olu Adenyi, Prof Amosun
o 14 November 2023: facilitators: Janine Senekal,Prof Amosun
o 22 November 2023: facilitators:Aasiyah Chafeker, Prof Amosun
Photo: First shut up and write workshop with Dentistry staff
Discussions were held with all Heads of departments to understand how the DD could be of assistance. There was a request for more information regarding Research support. The following in person sessions were held at Dentistry to provide all staff the opportunity to meet each other.
Professor Julie Phillips and her team in the Research Office provided a summary of all their services, processes and contact persons on the 23rd October 2023.
The Technology Transfer Office presented an overview of their services on the 13 November 2023. Funding and support for conducting research can be acquired through different mechanisms. It is therefore important that researchers at dentistry are aware of available opportunities.
Private-HEI partnerships for Research: Academic chairpersons were invited to engage with opportunities provided by 3M dental company. These details were shared with all researchers
in the Faculty and their postgraduate students. See below.
Deputy Dean PG Studies (Prof Nadia Mohammed)
Information sessions: Postgraduate procedural protocol discussions
Discussions regarding the Postgraduate procedural protocol were conducted with all departments to familiarise them with the higher degrees processes and protocols
Progress reports: All faculty progress reports were submitted and processed (none outstanding). HPCSA report: No response was received to the response submitted from the faculty
Information session: An information session was held at the faculty where Dr Shaikjee discussed the Jotform for supervisors and administrators.
December graduation: only 2 postgraduate students graduated
Congratulations to the following individuals:
Dr Adnan Al-Akhras (MSc Paediatric Dentistry)
Dr Fadi Titinchi (MChD Maxillo-facial and Oral Surgery)
Department Reports
1. Highlights from the Department of Community Dentistry (October -Dec 2023)
Scientific events
Attendance : One staff member attended the REDSSA Seminar on 12 October 2023 and ARESA Seminar on 13 October 2023 in Cape Town
Community Dentistry Postgraduate seminars
Dr Nashna Rampersad: Social media and dentistry (27 October 2024)
Dr Nuerisha Singh, Field Placement 4: An oral health plan for a Non-Profit Organization (27 Oct 2023)
Journal club
The department hosted the following Dental Public Health Journal club meetings: • 6 Oct 2023: Leverage digital technology for the implementation of the WHO global and regional strategies on oral health - Dr Yuka Makino (World Health Organization (WHO) Technical Officer for Oral Health)
20 Oct 2023: The essentials: essential dental medicine and essential oral health services, Prof Hyewon Lee
10 November 2023: Redefining NCDs: The 6x6 Concept as a Global Initiative to address Oral Health and Sugars, Prof Habib Benzian
Outreaches and community networking
Part of our planning for 2024 was networking with local service providers around the Cape Winelands, where we visit the Bottelary Primary school each week. Connecting with Idas Valley and Kraaifontein Dental Clinics about the Bottelary Outreach. On 30 November we managed to meet and connect with the leadership at Bottelary Primary School, and also Dr's Anton Weidemann and Roger Braaf of Idas Valley and Kraaifontein Clinics respectively. It is important to be a part of a team that is community-based, and who collaborate together to help with oral health upliftment and maintenance of the young people in our care.
General
One staff member, Ms Felicity Vanqa completed the PGDip in interprofessional education in health at UWC and will graduate in 2024
Dr Nuerisha Singh completed her specialist training programme (MChD in Community Dentistry) and will graduate in 2024
Dr Yousra Hamid completed her MSc Dental Public Health and will graduate in 2024 4. The department accepted 5 new MSc (DPH) student who will commence their studies in 2024
Department team building in Cape Town on 8 December 2023: This was a significant day on 08 December where we could build team culture in a neutral venue, which happened to be very beautiful too. Spending quality time as a Department was a powerfully enriching experience, and the investment will bear fruits as we work together in the years to come.
Publications
Mepatia AI, Myburgh N, Barrie R, Kimmie-Dhansay F. Self-assessment of dental health status, behaviours and oral health risk factors among adolescents from public schools in Maputo City-Mozambique. BMC Oral Health. 2024 Jan 31;24(1):145.
Mickenautsch S, Rupf S, Miletić I, Strähle UT, Sturm R, Kimmie-Dhansay F, Yengopal V. Inter-rater reliability of the extended Composite Quality Score (CQS-2). Frontiers in Medicine. 2023;10.
1. Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
Postgraduate Activities:
• Master of Dental Surgery in Orthodontics
During the period above Dr Leslie Mpatikana Galane completed his coursework including Minithesis.
Dr Galane is currently in the process of registration as specialist orthodontist.
The current regsitrars Drs Julyan, Fakir and Mvundla are making good progress in the course. This group is currently enrolled in ORT 813, 823 and 833. Dr Fakir and Mvundla have topics registered for their mini-thesis (DNT 803) and Dr Julyan has managed to complete his minithesis which has also been marked and graded.
Interviews held during August 2023 enabled the department to offer contracts to two new registrars set to possibly start during April 2024.
• Master of Science 5800
Please find below a tale of the MSc projects currently active in the department. For the year 2024 4 new projects have been approved and registered in the department.
Diploma in Interceptive Orthodontics INO 611 + 612 The last contact session for the diploma course was held during Nov 2023.
23 Candidates successfully completed the course and 22 candidates progressed form the first to the second year.
For 2024 registration of over 30 students has already taken place for INO 611 with only a few outstanding (due to administrative challenges).
Three contact session for the year will take place at the Tygerberg Oral Health Centre. Clinical Activities
• The department interacted with the Department of MFOS department and set up Orthognathic Surgery clinical meetings at GSH towards the end of 2023. The meetings are planned to take place monthly at GSH with interaction between the consultants and registrars form the respective departments
• The department has also engaged with our fellow departments to ensure the continuation of multi-disciplinary meetings which were initiated towards the end of 2023. At present the Department of Prosthodontics have reported some challenges, soon to be resolved, which would allow final planning and scheduling of the above meetings.
Speakers
• Dr Stonehouse-Smith, a PhD student from the UK, was hosted by the department on the 25th of January. The research project in cleft lip and palate was presented to those attending including the Plastic Surgery department of UCT Medical School.
• Professor WIchelhaus will be hosted for a lecture entitled “Advances in Orthodontics” on the 26th of January. Prof Wichelhaus is Professor and Chairperson in the Orthodontic Department, Ludwig Maximilian, University of Munich.
Development
• The department has, with the assistance of Professor Yengopal, managed to purchase the hardware necessary to install computers in the clinical area at Tygerberg Oral Health Centre. The computers will allow the introduction of digital record keeping in the clinic as well as teaching of digital techniques to both the undergraduate dental and oral hygiene students.
Division Paediatric Dentistry
1. PED400
• All students are successfully registered and have access to all learning content on iKamva. • The Pre-clinical Block was completed during week 2, with positive student feedback about the new procedures learned and the engaging manner of the supervisors.
• Students are progressing well in the clinics, but knowledge-assumed-to-be-in-place is troubling. Intervention will be given, especially for the clinical application of dental materials.
2.
CPM500 (Paedo component)
• Students are slowly coming back into clinics now, although many are still on rotations, Phelophepa train and Crown & Bridge block.
3.
PDD
• The first contact session for the Paediatric Dentistry PGDip II is scheduled from the 4-6th March 2024. Pulp and trauma is the theme of this session which includes:
o 1.Seminars
o 2.Journal critiques
o 3.Pulp hands on session
• The Paediatric Dentistry Department has restructured the PGDip into a one-year course and therefore there is no intake for PGDip I for 2024 and the one year PGDip course will begin in 2025.
4.
MSc
• 5 students are successfully registered for modules to complete the structured programme for a Msc in Paediatric dentistry. 1 student is first year, 2 students are second year and 2 students 3 third year. Both 3rd year students have completed all clinical requirements and modules for the program, except for the submission of the mini-thesis. Both students have submitted an ‘intention to submit’ by end of 2024. 4 students registered for MSc by thesis: 3 students are starting their research, and 1 student will submit her thesis by the end of 2024. All new students have been appointed supervisors, and they are all working on their protocols. All structured MSc student have completed the following introductory sessions:
o Library orientation (also invited MSc by thesis students)
o Training on e-portfolio
o Training on Turn-it-in
o Orientation sessions of the clinic in MP and TYG
o RAD tutorial
• PED 812:
o Both students completed all theoretical and clinical requirements for PED811 in 2023. Both students also passed the Research methods, Pathology and Oral Biology modules. Both second year students obtained BMREC clearance for their min-thesis and is busy with data capturing.
o Both students have started working in the clinics and rotating to TYG, MP and Red Cross Hospital.
o Students have received their assignment topics and presentation sessions will commence the first week of March.
• PED811:
o 2 students were accepted for the program, however, one student informed us last minute that she will not be able to attend the course anymore due to personal circumstances. The department decided that it was too late to accept another student on this short notice. It was decided to rather admit 2 more ‘Msc by thesis’ students. o The student has been appointed a supervisor and is working on her protocol. The aim is to present the protocol by June 2024.
o The student has started clinics at both TYG, MP and Red Cross Hospital.
o The student has received their assignment topics and presentation sessions will commence the first week of March.
o The student has also started the other modules: Research Methods, Oral Biology and Pathology.
• Research in MSc:
o A summary of all postgraduate research is attached in the table
MEDIA RELEASE: Rotary Club Elevates Paediatric Dentistry in South Africa
First Paediatric and Special Needs Dental Care Unit
The landscape of paediatric dental care in South Africa is poised for a significant transformation, marked by the launch of the nation's first specialised Paediatric and Special Needs Dental Care Unit. This pioneering initiative, a result of the dedicated efforts of the Department of Paediatric Dentistry of the University of the Western Cape (UWC), The Provincial Government of the Western Cape (PGWC) and Rotary Club, is set to revolutionise Paediatric Dentistry in South Africa. It promises enhanced efficiency, a reduction in anxiety for young patients and a sharpened focus on providing dedicated oral health services to children and especially children with special health care needs. Working towards the acknowledgment of Paediatric Dentistry as a specialty in South Africa, the need for a dedicated, specialised, child-friendly facility was identified - particularly in the Western Cape. This project stands as a steadfast response to establish such a paediatric dental unit, promising to positively impact service delivery to the children of the Western Cape.
Dalene Swart, President of the Rotary Club of Bellville, is passionate about this transformative initiative. She underscores the present scenario wherein young patients often undergo dental procedures under general anaesthesia. “The establishment of a dedicated paediatric dentistry surgery unit, equipped with the latest materials and state-of-the-art equipment, not only enhances service quality but also serves as an invaluable training ground for postgraduate students,” she says.
However, the impact transcends mere smiles; it represents a pivotal advancement in South African healthcare, focused on the oral health of children. This project is expected to increase treatment capacity in the field of Paediatric Dentistry, thereby alleviating the workload of local healthcare professionals. It will also foster disease prevention and treatment programmes, bolster healthcare systems, and in time, significantly reduce the burden of disease and need for care under general
This project, scheduled for full implementation by the end of October 2023, is the outcome of a collaboration between dedicated Rotary Club participants and the Tygerberg Oral Health Centre, which is a joint platform between UWC and PGWC. It seamlessly aligns with the UWC mission to train
paediatric dentists as specialists in South Africa, reaffirming the institution's commitment to community health and well-being. Similarly, it aligns with PGWC that is dedicated to high quality service rendering to all patients. Under this initiative, the first paediatric dentists will receive specialised training each year, while hundreds of children will benefit from disease prevention and interventions.
The project, funded with a capital expenditure of R1.2million, draws support from various sources, including cash contributions from the Rotary Club of Bellville, Rotary Foundation and six other Rotary Clubs from the UK, USA and Canada. A significant portion of the funds raised was allocated to state-
Staff members: Division Paediatric Dentistry at the launch
Left to Right: Dr Nicoline Potgieter, Prof Nadia Mohamed (previous HOD), Dr Craig Peck (current Division Head), Dr Fathima Peerbhay, Dr Naeemah Noordien
Tygerberg Hospital Collaboration:
Staff visited the Paediatric Oncology ward at Tygerberg Hospital in December 2023, to deliver oral hygiene gift packages to the parents/ caregivers and entertain the children with balloon animals.
Publications:
Potgieter N, Noordien N, Mulder R, Peck C and Groisman S. (2023). Parental acceptance of silver fluoride as a treatment option for carious lesions among South African children with special health care needs. Front. Oral. Health 4:1294227. doi: 10.3389/froh.2023.1294227
Mulder R, Potgieter N, Noordien N. (2023). Penetration of SDF and AgF from the infected towards the unaffected tooth structure. Front. Oral. Health Volume 4doi:10.3389/froh.2023.1298211
Mohamed N, Peck C, Senekal, J. (2023). Healthcare professionals’ perceptions of interprofessional collaborative practice in South Africa: A systematic review (accepted for publication in HSAG, December 2023).
Foláyan MO, Ramos-Gomez F, Fatusi OA, Nabil N, Lyimo GV, Minja IK, Masumo RM, Mohamed N, Potgieter N, Matanhire C, Maposa P, Akino CR, Adeniyi A, Mohebbi SZ, Ellakany P, Chen J, Amalia R, Iandolo A, Peedikayil FC, Aravind A, Al-Batayneh OB, Khader YS, Al-Maweri SA, Sabbah W, Abeldaño Zuñiga RA, Vukovic A, Jovanovic J, Jafar RM, Maldupa I, Arheiam A, Mendes FM, Uribe SE, López Jordi MC, Villena RS, Duangthip D, Sam- Agudu NA and El Tantawi M. (2023). Child dental neglect and legal protections: a compendium of briefs from
policy reviews in 26 countries anda special administrative region of China. Front. Oral. Health 4:1211242. doi: 10.3389/froh.2023.1211242.
Riaan Mulder, Nicoline Potgieter and Naeemah Noordien. Penetration of SDF and AgF from the infected dentine towards the unaffected tooth structure. Frontiers in Oral Health Preventive Dentistry. https://doi.org/10.3389/froh.2023.1298211
Van der Vyver P, Potgieter N, Vorster M. Management of a permanent lateral incisor with a talon cusp and immature apex: A case report. Clin Case Rep. 2024;12:e8404. https://doi.org/10.1002/ccr3.8404.
Letter to the editor. Caries management pathways for children: IAPD Global Policy Statement. International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry. Accepted 24 July 2023. DOI: 10.1111/ipd.12119 (Nicoline Potgieter).
Under review:
Hudson A, Yeo L, Harris AMP, Mohamed N. (2023). Factors influencing dental practitioners’ decision to perform interceptive orthodontic treatment in public and private practice settings in the Tswane metropole, South Africa (under final review in SADJ).
Potgieter N1*, Pereira V2, Elias R3, Charone S4, Groisman S5. Remineralization of carious lesions treated with silver fluoride in children with special health care needs.
Riaan Mulder1, Nicoline Potgieter2*, Naeemah Noordien3. Cytocompatibility of caries remineralization products - a Pilot study.
Potgieter N1*, Pereira V2, Elias R3, Charone S4, Goisman S5. parents or guardian’s acceptance of the use of silver diamine fluoride in children with special health care needs.
Nicoline Potgieter, Gemma Bridge, Marlies Elfrink, Morenike Oluwatoyin Folayan, Sherry Shiqian Gao, Sonia Groisman, Ashwin Jawdekar, Arthur Musakulu Kemoli, David Lim, Phuong Ly, Shani Mani, Ray Mrisho Masumo, Joana Monteiro, Majorie K Muasya, Ambrina Qureshi and Norman Tinanoff. GLOBAL PRACTICE ON INFORMED CONSENT IN PAEDIATRIC DENTISTRY.
2. Department of Craniofacial Biology, Pathology & Radiology
Teaching and Learning
Teaching and Learning UG
Oral Bio: Lectures are complete for semester 1 assessments completed - end of May
RAD200 -
Test 1 completed, 7 students of concern, all concerned students were called for intervention and support, 1 student failed Test 1, Test 2 and OSCE for term 4 on lecture schedule. All lectures up to date and continue with revision in the Second Semester for preparation of exams at the end of the year. Clinical assessments to be done in Term 3 and Term 4.
RAT300 -
Test 1 completed, 9 students of concern, most students were called for intervention and support given by Ms Samuels. Test 2 and OSCE scheduled as indicated on the Time Table. All lectures up to date and continue with revision in the Second Semester for preparation of exams at the end of the year. Clinical assessments to be done in Term 4.
RAD400 wrote test 1(osce and written), 1 student did not write, year coordinator was informed, diagnostic clinical test was conducted in 1st semester; lecturer and student module evaluation sent out for completion; 1 student of concern due to performance in test reported to year coordinator; test 1 average 59%
RAD301: 10/20 lectures are completed as per the lecture schedule.
- Test 1 was written on the 21st April, Average: 61% , (5 A's, 1 B, 10 C's, 6 D's)
- Students that received the lowest mark for test 1 (50-52%) will be monitored and extra assistance/support will be offered to any student
- The Computer lab was booked for test 1 (Students preferred the testing environment as radiographic features are best depicted digitally where one can zoom in and out and everyone has their own PC. *Logistically, it takes time to load the PC's with the testPC's are very slow)
- Clinical Assessments (Diagnosis and Techniques Competency tests)
- Students to complete 1 tech test and 1 diagnostic competency test by the end of the semester.
RAP220 RAD123 and RAT200: Second semester module
Teaching and Learning PG ● FOD611 PgDips (Forensics)
1st Face 2 face contact session completed
● FOD612
Online lectures continue
1st Face 2 face contact session completed
● FOR811
Online lectures continue
1st Face to face contact session completed
● RAD812 catchup still in progress, student registered late
● Additional lecture for paedo and perio postgrads to be given by Dr Walters
● MFR611: 2 students enrolled, 1st contact session was scheduled for 28th May – 02 June, 2nd contact session scheduled for 4th-8th Oct
● MFR612: 6 students - Assignment instructions distributed. Progress regarding the literature review has been requested.
● ANA825: NA (no students registered this year)
● RAD823 - NA (no students registered this year)
● RAD822 - NA (no students registered this year)
● RAD824 - 1 MSc final year student busy with continuous assessments and seminars before end of the year exit level final exams, orals and OSCE
● ORB 811: 5 students. Course has just started. Online lectures scheduled for every Wednesday afternoon.
Postgraduate students
- 1 MSc thesis submitted for examination
- 4 new MSc students registered for Forensic Odontology
- 1 new registrar in Pathology: Dr Mongezi Nkosi, appointed as the first male black registrar in the oral and maxillofacial pathology department effective 2023.
- 1 PhD thesis submitted for examination
- 2 new registered PhD students
- 9 PhD students continue with their projects
- 1 Postdoc student registered: Dr Dada Temilola
- Dr Julandi Alwan passed the FCPath exams
Invitation lectures:
Dr Susan Chandler: Invitation from Division of Clinical Anatomy (ViSUN) of the Medical School of SU: Postgrad Anthroplogy students. Invited by Dr. L, Perold from the Division of Forensic Medicine from the SU - lecture about bitemarks in their weekly SUN Academic Meeting.
Radiology Dept duties
For Mitchell’s Plain:
Ms Natalie Sprague appointed as chief Radiographer
● Mr Abrahams have been approved request for early retirement, which will be at end July due to ill health.
● PACS at MP will hopefully be implemented Sept/October. Renovations will start middle to late July according to vendor.
For Tygerberg oral health:
● Management have approved staff to revert back to pre-Covid working timeslots i.e. from 7h30 to 4h30 pm
● All CBCT’s will be done on a booking system from 1 August.
● New CBCT bid spec committee has started. Mrs. Palmer and Dr Ebrahim on committee
● Radiation Inspection on all 29 units have been concluded at both sites
Congress Attendance
M Chetty. 49th ACBICON 2023. India. Dental and Craniofacial Genetics in Africa: Addressing the need for the Dentist-Scientist
M Chetty, S Sudi. 2023. Craniofacial Biology: Addressing the need for the Dentist-Scientist. IADR General Session, Bogota, Columbia.
● M Chetty, I Roomaney, K Beshtawi, S Kabbashi, Y Chothia, S Moosa. ICHG 2023. Enamel Renal Syndrome: Dental Management Challenges
● Kabbashi S, Chetty M, Beshtawi K, Roomaney I. 2023. International Congress of Human Genetics (ICHG2023): Syndromic associations of Macrodontia
● Aborass M, Kabbashi S, Chetty M. 2023. ICHG 2023. Genetic Basis of Periodontitis: Implications in Pre-eclampsia
● IA Roomaney, M Chetty. 2023. ICHG 2023. The University of Western Cape Craniofacial and Dental Genetics Clinic- two years of learning
● Dr M Aborass: oral presentation at African Health Excone:IADR -Egypt congress 2023 (Periodontitis&its association with Preeclampsia)
● M Chetty: Abstract accepted for IADR general session
● Dr S Kabbashi Abstract accepted for the XXIIIrd International Congress of Genetics and Genomics
● M Chetty: Invited speaker - 49th ACBICON 2023 (Laboratory Medicine Path aheadAmalgamating technology Humanity)
● Profs Chetty and Roberts, Dr Opperman and Dr Julandi Alwan attended: “Oral Oncology Conference 2023: African Perspectives on Omics”, 2023.
● Dr S Kabbashi attended: “The 14th Genomics of Rare Disease conference” 2023
● Prof Amir Afrogheh invited by SASPIO as a “SPEAKER AT SADA 2023 ANNUAL CONFERENCE” 2023
● Dr Johan Opperman invited to speak at the PathReD Congress 2023. 2023. Title: “An overview of odontogenic cysts”
● Prof Amir Afrogheh invited to speak at the PathReD Congress 2023. 2023. Title: “An overview of odontogenic tumours”
● Dr Julandi Alwan was invited to present at the PathReD Congress 2023, 2023. The young pathologist seminar.
● Dr Johan Opperman invited to present at IAOP – 21st International Congress of Oral Pathology and Medicine in Taiwan, 2023.
● Dr Suvarna Indermun: IADMFR World Tour Congress (International Association of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology), Brussels 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
Chetty M. 2023. Dental and Craniofacial Genetics in Africa: Addressing the need for the DentistScientist. Indian journal of Clinical Biochemistry. Vol 38. S22
Temilola DA, Adeola HA, Grobelaar J, Chetty M. 2023. Liquid Biopsy in Head and Neck Cancer: Its Present State and Future Role in Africa. Cells, 12(22), 2663; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12222663
Roomaney I, Kabbashi S, Beshtawi K, Chetty M. 2023. Enamel renal syndrome: a case series from sub-Saharan Africa. Frontiers in Oral Health. 4:1228760. DOI: 10.3389/froh.2023.1228760
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
Walters, J., Indermun, S. (2023). Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology. South African Dental Journal. 78 (2), p47. https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v78i02.16171
van Zyl T, van Rensburg LJ, Naidoo K, Merven M, Opperman JF. (2023). “Correlative imaging and histopathology of a complicated sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma.” SA J Radiol. 27(1):2548.
Professional development Courses:
Dr Chandler
Paleopathology workshop from WITS
Good Clinical Practice: Beginner Course (from Crede)
DNA Forensic Workshop
DNA Forensic Symposium
Introduction to Molecular Techniques – Online training by Separations
Dr Kabbashi
Good Clinical Practice: Beginner Course (from Crede)
The Collaborative Translational Genetics Symposium
Genomics in Paediatric Care Workshop
Research Data Management Training 2023
Introduction to Molecular Techniques – Online training by Separation.
Higher Education's Digital Transformation workshop
Dr Aborass
Good Clinical Practice: Beginner Course (from Crede)
The Collaborative Translational Genetics Symposium.
Introduction to Molecular Techniques – Online training by Separation.
Research Data Management Training 2023
Higher Education's Digital Transformation workshop.
Dr Roomaney
Good Clinical Practice: Beginner Course (from Crede)
The Collaborative Translational Genetics Symposium
Higher Education's Digital Transformation workshop
DNA Forensic Workshop
Curating the Clinical Genome- Wellcome Trust
DSI & Horizon Europe Information Session and Proposal Writing sessions
2D/3D image analysis with Amira Software
Precision Medicine: Therapeutic Targets - "Promoting focused Trans-Institutional Collaborative Research"
Reviewed articles for American Journal of Medical Genetics
Notable Achievements:
● Dr Salma Kabbashi: Accepted to attend Havard’s global clinical scholars research training workshop
● Awarded the John Gray fellowship.
● MOU signed between King's College London (Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology) and Faculty of Dentistry (Department of Craniofacial Biology, Pathology & Radiology).
● Prof Chetty: Appointed Research Chair for Oral Health (2023 – 2026)
● Initiated the formalization of the African Society for Dental and Craniofacial Genetics-registration process is underway.
● MOU signed between Craniofacial Biology and Cardio-matabolic Health Research Institute (CPUT)
Outreach and Clinics
Development of the Forensics Team: Dr Susan Chandler (Team leader)
Dr Stephen Sudi (Research and Innovation)
Dr Jaco Walters (Radiology)
Dr Johan Opperman (Pathology and Autopsy)
Dr Chandler: Consulted on Forensic Cases
- WC 14/0425/23
- WC 14/0536/23
- WC 14/0789/23
- WC 14/3630/23
- WC 14/1654/23
- CAS 353/12/2019
- Bite Mark case from Richmond
Departmental Clinics
Dental Genetics:
● The dental genetics clinic is making significant progress in both patient management and new patient intake
● We established a new multidisciplinary team consisting of Prof Chetty, Dr Roomaney, Dr Kabbashi, Dr Ramkissoon, Prof Geerts, Dr Douglas-Jones, Dr Nyakale.
● Clinical days: Monday (on call), Tuesday (whole day), Wednesday (morning), Thursday (afternoon at Red Cross)
● We are currently setting up an SOP
● We are reaching the end of the Enamel Renal Syndrome project (SAMRC funded)
● We will be starting additional research projects under the Research Chair projects shortly
Oral Oncology:
● We established the Oral oncology clinic in Oct 2023, and it focuses on the oral and dental needs of cancer patients immediately before, during and after treatment.
● Our clinic aims to assess and provide oral and dental treatment as a member of the multidisciplinary cancer team to optimise the patient's oral health.
● We have examined around 30 patients and managed to treat 10 of them depending on patient availability.
○ Type of treatment: Scaling and polishing, fillings, extraction and artificial saliva and xerostomia moisturiser for dry mouth.
○ Identify several cases for future research projects.
3. Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Unit highlights
Prof Amir Afrogheh was invited as an examiner for college of medicine of South Africa (CMSA), FCPath (part II) (oral pathology), October 2023.
Dr Johan Opperman was invited as an observer for college of medicine of South Africa (CMSA), FCPath (Part II) (oral pathology), October 2023.
Dr Julandi Alwan (Senior registrar, oral pathology), successfully passed FCPath (Part II), oral pathology examination in October 2023 and is expected to complete her thesis and graduate in 2024.
Prof Amir Afrogheh was invited as an external examiner for applied oral pathology for MDent (MDGB191), SMU, November 2023.
Prof Amir Afrogheh was invited as an external examiner for oral pathology for MDS (MMXK190), SMU, November 2023.
Prof Amir Afrogheh was invited as an external examiner for applied oral pathology for postgraduate diploma in dentistry (MDGB180 &MDTA 180), SMU, November 2023.
Prof Amir Afrogheh was invited as an external examiner for the subject oral pathology for oral medicine and periodontology registrars (MPG 803), University of Pretoria.
Dr Johan Opperman was invited as an external examiner for the subject oral pathology for orthodontics and periodontology registrars (MPG 803), University of Pretoria, 17 November 2023.
Dr Johan Opperman was invited as an external examiner for FOT701, postgraduate diploma in forensic odontology, University of Pretoria, November 2023.
Dr Johan Opperman was invited as an external examiner for OPAT7010A, oral pathology for undergraduate students, University of Witwatersrand, November 2023.
Dr Johan Opperman has been invited to contribute to book chapter: “Oral Health and Disease: What you Should Know”. Chapter: An Overview of jawbone infections. Springer Nature (Switzerland).
Professor Amir Afrogheh has been funded by the World Tumor Registry (WTR) to attend the prestigious 113th USCAP meeting held in Baltimore, 23-27th March 2023, as chief editor for Africa and Middle east, thyroid section.
Dr Sharon Harbor (MMED, anatomical pathology, US), received the AWARD for the BEST oral presentation entitled: “An Evaluation of High-Risk HPV in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Lip in a South African Cohort” at the PathRed congress 2024, Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre, JHB. Supervisor: Prof Amir Afrogheh
4. Department of Prosthodontics
DR Ronel Maart, the HOD, has been appointed Chairperson of Scientific committee: TUFT international conference 2024
Dr Ronel Maart has been Accepted on Future Professor Programme 2024-2025
Publications for Department of Prosthodontics
Journal Articles:
1. Gounden, T., Adam, R.Z., Mdlalose, L., 2023. Morphological variations of two cases of maxillary myofibromas. South African Dental Journal 78, 97–100. https://doi.org/10.17159/2519sadj.v78i2.161
2. Essa AY, Ahmed S, Dyason A, Karjiker F, Adam RZ. Teaching and placement of dental amalgam restorations at South African dental schools. Front Oral Health. 2023;4:1118361. Published 2023 Jul 19. doi:10.3389/froh.2023.1118361.
3. Klein, Widadh, Enas Ismail, Ernest Maboza, Ahmed A. Hussein, and Razia Z. Adam. "GreenSynthesized Silver Nanoparticles: Antifungal and Cytotoxic Potential for Further Dental Applications." Journal of Functional Biomaterials 14, no. 7 (2023): 379.
4. Comparative in vitro study of selected physical properties of Activa, Cention N and Vitremer. Mohammed, R. K; Mulder, R. International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry. Volume 33, Issue S1, Page 202-203; 2023. Abstract: NSR002. DOI: 10.1111/ipd.13076. 14 June 2023.Issn: 1365-263X
5. Human examination and artificial intelligence in cephalometric landmark detection-is AI ready to take over?Indermun S, Shaik S, Nyirenda C, Johannes K, Mulder R.Dentomaxillofac Radiol. 2023 Sep;52(6):20220362. doi: 10.1259/dmfr.20220362. Epub 2023 Jul 3. PMID: 37427581
6. Cuspal deflection of teeth restored with bulk fill flowable composite resins, with and without fiberreinforcement and evaluated by Micro-computed Tomography.Parker R, Mulder R, Keanly C. MethodsX. 2023 Jul 27;11:102302. doi: 10.1016/j.mex.2023.102302. eCollection 2023 Dec. PMID: 37577165
7. Potgieter N, Noordien N, Mulder R, Peck C, Groisman S. Parental acceptance of silver fluoride as a treatment option for carious lesions among South African children with special health care needs. Front Oral Health. 2023 Nov 16;4:1294227. doi: 10.3389/froh.2023.1294227. PMID: 38033463; PMCID: PMC10687540.
8. Penetration of SDF and AgF from the infected towards the unaffected tooth structure Riaan Mulder, Nicoline Potgiete,r Naeemah Noordien. Front. Oral. HealthSec. Preventive Dentistry Volume 4 - 2023 | doi: 10.3389/froh.2023.1298211
9. Netshilindi, N., Asia-Michaels, W., & Maart, R. (2023). An innovative digital workflow for the fabrication of a prosthetic ear: A case report. South African Dental Journal, 78(2), 92-96.
10. 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.
11. 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
12. Khan S, Maboza E, Valley N, Taliep A. Surveillance of specific pathogens on mobile phones in a dental setting during the COVID pandemic (SADJ February 2023, Vol. 78 No.1).
13. Tantawi M; Lam WYH; Giraudeau N; Virtanen JI; Matahire C; Chifamba T; Khan S; et al.
Teledentistry from research to practice: a tale of nineteen countries. Frontiers In Oral Health: Oral Epidemiology. 2023; 4: (doi.org/10.3389/froh.2023.1188557
14. Ahmed, S., Adam, R.Z. and Coetzee, R., 2023. Letter to the Editor. SADJ., 78(9), p.431.
15. Nghayo, H.A., Palanyandi, C.E., Ramphoma, K.J. and Maart, R., 2024. Oral health community engagement programs for rural communities: A scoping review. Plos one, 19(2), p.e0297546.
Conference proceedings:
1. S van Schalkwyk, F Cilliers, R Maart, A George. Getting published: Taking intentional steps towards success A SAAHE HPER SIG workshop. African Journal of Health Professions Education, Volume 15, Issue 2 | Jun 2023, page 45.
2. Maart R, Gordon N. (2023). A community partnership as a vehicle to increase access to oral care for geriatrics. IPECP: Are we making a difference in Africa?. (2023). African Journal of Health Professions Education, 15(4), page4. e1826.
3. Debra Goff, Douglas Goff, Jason Stoner, Razia Adam,Twitter engaged and educated dentists worldwide in dental antibiotic stewardship., IDJ 73 (S1), S6://doi.org/10.1016/j.identj.2023.07.187. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020653923003064)
4. Morning and afternoon microbial load of air in various sections of a Dental Faculty. Marcelle Cupido, Riaan Mulder, Nazreen Layloo, Bashier Kathree. J Dent Res Vol #102 (Spec Iss C): 3966974. 52nd Scientific Meeting of IADR South African Division Cape Town, South Africa (September 7-8, 2023). Issn: 1544-0591
5. Assessing the ease of use of a biohazard disposal technique: Pouch Technique. Riaan Mulder, Ronel Maart, Winnifred Asia, Rozan le Roux, Lesca Loubser, Thashan Naidu. J Dent Res Vol #102 (Spec Iss C): 3972036. 52nd Scientific Meeting of IADR South African Division Cape Town, South Africa (September 7-8, 2023).
Issn: 1544-0591
6. Student perspectives of infusing digital technology in preclinical Prosthetic technique course. Ronel Maart, Riaan Mulder, Winnifred Asia, Sadika Khan. J Dent Res Vol #102 (Spec Iss C): 3966966. 52nd Scientific Meeting of IADR South African Division Cape Town, South Africa (September 7-8, 2023). Issn: 1544-0591
7. Cost analysis of toothpaste versus tablets. Riaan Mulder. J Dent Res Vol #102 (Spec Iss C): 3972591. 52nd Scientific Meeting of IADR South African Division Cape Town, South Africa (September 7-8, 2023).Issn: 1544-0591
8. IL-1 genotype association with a diagnosis of periodontitis: in vivo study. Sune Mulder, Riaan Mulder. J Dent Res Vol #102 (Spec Iss C): 3971096. 52nd Scientific Meeting of IADR South African Division Cape Town, South Africa (September 7-8, 2023).
9. The Effect of Different Types of Smoking on Teeth and Nanocomposites. Dr Yasmin N Ibrahim, Prof Saadika Khan & Dr Farzana Karjiker. 52nd Scientific Meeting of IADR South African Division Cape Town, South Africa (September 7-8, 2023).
5. Department of Oral Hygiene
1. Professional advancement and engagement
The Dept of Oral Hygiene hosted the Expanded Functions Course 2. This CPD short course was developed in response to the promulgation of additional functions within the scope of profession of the Oral Hygienist. Eleven qualified Oral Hygienists from across the country enrolled. Online classes were held from 17-22 November 2023. From 29 November-1 December 2023 the delegates were at the Faculty for practical training and skills development as well as assessments. Our partner from Industry, Colgate Palmolive, participated and provided each delegate with free product samples.
2. International collaboration
On 17 November 2023, Bachelor of Oral Health students from Ghent, Artevelde, were invited to the online research project presentations of the UWC BOH3 students. Six projects were presented. Later that day, the BOH3 students from Artevelde presented their research protocols to the UWC BOH3 students and staff. The following topics were presented by the Artevelde students with a view to collaborate with students and staff at UWC:
Literate search on the effects of early tooth change in South African children compared to Flemish children on speech development (2 students).
Literature search on the presence of early childhood caries and associated risk factors in South African children compared to Flemish children (2 students).
The Research coordinator, Mrs Margo Van der Jeught proposed co-supervision for the Artevelde students. The matter is in progress.
Furthermore, as part of the established MOU with Artevelde Hogeschool in Ghent, 2 students from Artevelde, Ms Phebe De Langhe and Maud Dhont, have started the preparation for their visit to the Faculty on a two-month internship from 29th of January until 31th of March 2024. Activities would include clinical observations and treatment at the Tygerberg clinic, Mitchells Plain clinic and oral health promotion activities.
3. Service learning in community settings and research
Glenbridges Special Needs School
As a part of the BOH3 clinical rotations students provided oral care services at the Glenbridges Special Needs School every Wednesday during Term 3 and Term 4 in 2023. Tailored oral health
education for the learners, teachers and caregivers was provided. In addition, screening, prophylaxis, fissure sealants and ART was performed. This is a longterm initiative and has been registered as a research project - base line oral health data, special needs patient management, as well as student and school staff reflections and evaluation of the project will be the focus.
6. Department of Maxillofacial & Oral Surgery
Dr Nashreen Behardien successfully completed the Developing the Scholar (DTS) program run by the office of the DVC R&I.
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.
Your sincerely
Prof V Yengopal Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, UWC