Tooth loss is one of the most common oral health problems, particularly among adults and the elderly. This condition can cause disturbances in chewing function, speech, facial aesthetics, and may affect a person’s self-confidence. Therefore, prosthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in restoring function and patient comfort.
Prosthodontics covers various forms of rehabilitation for missing teeth, ranging from removable partial dentures and complete dentures to fixed prostheses and dental implants. One important aspect of successful prosthodontic treatment is service quality and patient satisfaction, as examined in a study by a Faculty of Dentistry UGM student, Fadila Figatami, under the supervision of Dr. drg. Endang Wahyuningtyas, M.S., Sp.Pros(K) and Prof. drg. Titik Ismiyati, MS, Sp.Pros(K), entitled “The Influence of the Quality of Prosthodontic Clerkship Students’ Services on the Satisfaction Level of Removable Partial Denture Patients (Study at RSGM UGM Prof. Soedomo, 2018).”
Basic Principles of Prosthodontic Treatment
Prosthodontic treatment aims to restore optimal function of the stomatognathic system, including:
- Masticatory function (chewing)
- Facial and smile aesthetics
- Phonetic function (speech)
- Occlusal balance and comfort of supporting tissues
In clinical practice, treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including:
- The condition of hard and soft tissues in the oral cavity.
- Prosthesis design tailored to functional and aesthetic needs.
- Selection of materials (acrylic, metal, flexible resin, etc.) according to clinical indications.
- Patient education regarding the use and care of the prosthesis.
Findings from UGM Research
The study conducted at RSGM UGM Prof. Soedomo highlighted the relationship between the quality of clinical services provided by prosthodontic clerkship students and the satisfaction level of patients using removable partial dentures.
Key findings include:
- Patients rated communication, technical skills, and empathy of the students as dominant factors influencing satisfaction.
- Patient satisfaction increased in line with improvements in clinical service quality.
- Good service includes accuracy in impression taking, occlusal adjustment, and post-insertion care.
These results indicate that the success of prosthodontic treatment depends not only on denture fabrication techniques, but also on professional interaction and the quality of care provided to patients.
Clinical and Ethical Aspects of Patient Care
Prosthodontic treatment requires a balance between technical competence and a humanistic approach. Key aspects to consider include:
- Therapeutic communication: building trust between the dentist and the patient.
- Post-insertion comfort evaluation: addressing complaints such as pain, ulcers, or initial discomfort.
- Regular follow-up: adjusting retention, stability, and denture hygiene.
- Patient education: teaching proper cleaning and maintenance of dentures.
Optimal service quality will increase patient acceptance of the prosthesis, extend its lifespan, and improve overall oral health.
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Prosthodontic treatment plays a vital role in the rehabilitation of patients with tooth loss. UGM research shows that clinical service quality is directly proportional to patient satisfaction, highlighting the importance of competence, empathy, and communication in dental practice.
By improving the quality of prosthodontic education and services, universities and clinics can support global goals in enhancing health, education, and equitable access to sustainable healthcare.
References
FADILA FIGATAMI, Dr. drg. Endang Wahyuningtyas, M.S., Sp. Pros(K); Prof. drg. Titik Ismiyati, MS, Sp.Pros.(K), Pengaruh Mutu Pelayanan Mahasiswa Kepaniteraan Prostodonsia Terhadap Tingkat Kepuasan Pasien Pemakai Gigi Tiruan Sebagian Lepasan (Kajian di RSGM UGM Prof. Soedomo Tahun 2018), https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/168258
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
