According to the 2023 Indonesia Health Survey, 41.7% of the population in the Special Region of Yogyakarta suffers from cavities. However, many still lack access to dental and oral health services. This condition became the basis for the Department of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) to hold a community service activity in Ngandong Hamlet, Girikerto Village, Turi District, Sleman, on Saturday (19 July).
The event was organized by the Department of Conservative Dentistry, FKG UGM, in collaboration with the Indonesian Association of Conservative Dentistry (IKORGI) Yogyakarta, and involved residents and supervising lecturers. Services provided included general examinations, single-visit root canal treatments, dental fillings using modern materials such as composite resin and bioactive materials, as well as direct veneers to restore tooth shape.
The program targeted the general public, with most participants being adults experiencing cavities, pain, or damaged teeth. Children who came with their parents also received light check-ups and educational activities.
Dr. Tunjung Nugraheni, M.Kes., Sp.KG., Subsp. KE(K), the event’s chair, explained that the program also served as a platform for residents to implement their academic knowledge. “They not only practice clinical skills but also learn to organize community service activities, from the initial planning stage to field implementation,” she stated.
According to Dr. Tunjung, the initiative received an enthusiastic response from Ngandong residents. “The community’s enthusiasm was extraordinary, with some even arriving before registration opened,” she added.
This program will not stop as a one-day activity. Collaboration between the Department of Conservative Dentistry and the Girikerto Village Government will continue in the form of sustainable education and routine services. The goal is to increase public awareness of the importance of maintaining dental health as an essential part of overall health.
“Educational institutions like FKG UGM and professional dental organizations play a crucial role as the frontline in improving the community’s dental health status,” Dr. Tunjung emphasized. She also noted that continuous education is urgent so that the community realizes the importance of regular dental care.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti
