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UPH Launches Faculty of Dentistry to Train the Next Generation of Globally Competent Dentists

Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) has made a significant leap forward in advancing healthcare education by launching its new Faculty of Dentistry (Fakultas Kedokteran Gigi or FKG). The faculty is now accepting applications for its inaugural cohort, set to begin studies in August 2025. This initiative is backed by the Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek), reflecting national support for addressing the country’s pressing dental care needs.

The establishment of FKG UPH comes at a critical time. With only around 40,000 dentists serving a population of over 270 million, Indonesia faces a severe shortage in dental professionals—far below the ideal ratio. As a result, access to dental care remains limited, with nearly half of Indonesia’s community health centers (Puskesmas) lacking a resident dentist.

Dr. drg. Andi S. Budihardja, SpBM(K), Dean of FKG UPH, emphasizes the urgent need for more dental professionals. “Dental issues frequently emerge during public health screenings, highlighting the importance of expanding access to quality dental care,” he notes. “Our goal is not only to increase the number of dentists but also to ensure they are well-distributed and trained to the highest standards.”

FKG UPH will provide a world-class education supported by distinguished faculty and modern, high-tech facilities. Students will train in advanced dental laboratories equipped with simulation technology, and will study subjects such as oral biology, dental materials, and reconstructive dentistry—a specialization claimed to be the first of its kind in Indonesia. The program also incorporates cutting-edge tools such as intraoral scanners, 3D printers, and artificial intelligence applications in dentistry. Students will gain real-world clinical experience through partnerships with Siloam Hospitals, part of UPH’s extensive healthcare network.

The dental education journey at UPH spans several years. Students begin with approximately three and a half years of foundational academic study, culminating in a Bachelor of Dentistry degree. This is followed by two years of clinical training in hospitals and dental clinics, where students work alongside experienced practitioners. To become licensed dentists, graduates must pass a national competency examination and complete a six-month internship focused on building practical skills.

UPH’s dental curriculum is aligned with global standards, offering a balanced blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience. A distinctive feature of the program is its emphasis on reconstructive dentistry, which focuses on restoring dental function and aesthetics—from treating cavities to replacing missing teeth. Additionally, UPH is committed to advancing dental research and improving public oral health through interdisciplinary collaboration with other health faculties, the Siloam Hospitals Group, and the Mochtar Riady Institute for Nanotechnology (MRIN).

Beyond technical competence, UPH aims to develop dentists with strong Christ-like character, ethical awareness, and a heart for service. The program is designed to nurture well-rounded professionals who are ready to contribute meaningfully to society—as “Dentists Like No Others” and “Dentists for Others”—improving the quality of dental care for communities across Indonesia.