Most common oral diseases are directly related to oral biofilm, a complex community of microorganisms inhibiting the oral cavity. Recent studies provide deeper knowledge on how free-floating bacteria form a structurally organized microecosystem and on its pathogenicity and its self-defense mechanisms; thus, creating an understanding of the challenges in eliminating oral biofilm and maintaining the balance of oral ecosystem. Chlorhexidine has been the standard oral antimicrobial agent for decades. However, studies showed that it is less effective against bacteria in the form of biofilm that leads to an ongoing search of another method to fight against biofilm, including the use of plant-derived compounds. Medicinal plants are known to contain secondary metabolites, which are not only important in protecting the plant from any harmful environment but also potential as antimicroorganism and antioral biofilm for humans. Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb., containing xanthorrhizol (XNT), an essential bioactive compound, is an Indonesian native medicinal plant proven to have antibacterial and antibiofilm activities by several in vitro studies. The understanding of biofilm formation, its resistance to common drugs, and the potential role of C. xanthorrhiza-derived compounds as antibacterial and antibiofilm may contribute to developing C. xanthorrhiza into the alternative weapon against oral biofilm-related diseases.

Previously, we reported the serious game HistoRM as an innovative learning approach for an oral histology course. This study aimed to examine the impact of HistoRM on summative assessment and the enablers and barriers factors affecting HistoRM as an interactive learning strategy in an oral histology course. A crossover randomized controlled trial was performed. Study participants were first-year dental students at the Universitas Indonesia. The average final grades of students who participated in HistoRM serious game were significantly higher than those of students who did not participate in this trial (p < 0.001). Positive responses of HistoRM were observed in the learning content, games and learning experience domains. The enabler factors most recognized by the students were the game method, which helped students to understand the learning materials; the immediate feedback provided following each gameplay; as well as the fun and interesting gameplay. The barrier factors most recognized by the students were some challenges of the gameplay, which resulted in a longer time needed to study. While the HistoRM serious game can stimulate student motivation and engagement in learning oral histology, overcoming the barriers is essential for the implementation of serious games as a complementary learning approach in the dental curriculum.