UNAIR NEWS Pediatric dentistry faces a range of complex challenges攆rom children檚 fear of dental procedures to limited access to care caused by a shortage of dental specialists. Common issues such as tooth decay, jaw irregularities, and unhealthy habits like frequent sugar consumption demand effective and safe solutions.
These challenges were the focus of Prof. Dr. Prawati Nuraini檚 scientific oration during her inauguration as Professor of Herbal Medicine in Pediatric Dentistry at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, (UNAIR), on Thursday (April 24, 2025).
Herbal alternatives as viable solution
Addressing these concerns, Prof. Nuraini emphasized the potential of herbal remedies as innovative and sustainable solutions. Herbal treatments, derived from natural sources, are generally safer, have minimal side effects, and are more sustainable. As a country rich in biodiversity, Indonesia holds vast potential in medicinal plants that have been used traditionally for generations.
淚f traditional knowledge is developed with scientific rigor, it can lead to health products that are not only effective but also environmentally friendly and cost-efficient. Moreover, such practices help preserve the cultural heritage passed down through our ancestors, she noted.
Red ginger potential
Prof. Nuraini spotlighted red ginger as a promising herbal resource due to its diverse health benefits. Scientific studies have identified red ginger as a source of bioactive compounds with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and bone-strengthening properties.
淢y research was inspired by a passage in the Qur檃n擲urah Al-Insan, verses 1718攖hat refers to ginger as a heavenly drink. From this, I explored the therapeutic potential of red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) for children檚 dental health, she explained.
Her research demonstrated that red ginger extract possesses strong antibacterial properties capable of suppressing bacterial activity攁n essential factor in preventing dental caries and gum-related infections in children. Additionally, red ginger supports wound healing after procedures, bone growth, and general pediatric oral care.
Prof. Nuraini emphasized that herbal treatments can serve as a safe, effective, and affordable alternative for dental care. These remedies are natural, generally free of side effects, and accessible. However, she also stressed the importance of professional supervision and proper dosing to ensure their optimal efficacy.
Penulis: Rifki Sunarsis Ari Adi
Editor: Edwin Fatahuddin
