The Prosthodontics Study Program of the Faculty of Dentistry Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) has once again demonstrated its commitment to community service through a series of oral healthcare programs conducted in various regions from February to May 2026. Beyond providing free dental services, the program also served as a platform for collaboration among academics, professional organizations, industry partners, and communities to improve quality of life through oral rehabilitation.
The Community Service (Pengabdian Masyarakat/PM) program was carried out in four stages. The first stage was conducted in January 2026, followed by PM 2 on 6–7 February 2026, PM 3 on 10–11 April 2026, and PM 4 on 1–2 May 2026. All activities provided dental healthcare services directly addressing community needs, ranging from dental fillings, extractions, scaling, dental impressions, to free denture placement.
High Public Enthusiasm
During PM 2, which was conducted in collaboration with the Indonesian Prosthodontists Association (IPROSI) Yogyakarta and supported by Haleon, a total of 59 patients participated in oral healthcare services. Among them, 25 patients underwent dental impression procedures, accompanied by dental fillings, extractions, scaling, and oral health education provided to the community.
The activity involved several lecturers from the Prosthodontics Study Program FKG UGM, including drg. Murti Indrastuti, M.Kes., Sp.Pros., Subsp.PKIG(K)., and drg. Pramudya Aditama, MDSc., Sp.Pros. They not only provided clinical services but also delivered education regarding the importance of maintaining oral health and undergoing regular dental examinations.
“Many people actually need dental treatment, but access and cost remain obstacles. Through this activity, we want to be closer to the community and help improve their quality of life,” said drg. Murti.
Restoring Function and Self-Confidence
Meanwhile, PM 3, conducted in collaboration with the Indonesian Dental Association (PDGI) Pekalongan Branch, provided oral rehabilitation services through denture placement for local communities. A total of 35 patients registered for the program, and 18 patients successfully received dentures, with total rehabilitation reaching 26 dental arches.
The program was considered to have a significant impact on patients’ quality of life, particularly in restoring chewing function, facial aesthetics, and self-confidence.
Prof. drg. Titik Ismiyati explained that oral rehabilitation is not merely about aesthetics, but also concerns human health and fundamental functions.
“When someone loses teeth, it does not only affect their ability to chew, but also their psychological and social aspects. Therefore, oral rehabilitation plays an important role in improving quality of life,” she stated.
In addition to Prof. Titik, the activity also involved drg. Nadya as part of the Prosthodontics FKG UGM community service team
Collaboration for Better Smiles
The community service series continued through PM 4 in the Pagilaran area on 1–2 May 2026. During this activity, 24 patients were scheduled to receive dentures, with total rehabilitation reaching 42 dental arches. Overall, the community service program has assisted 42 patients with a total rehabilitation coverage of 68 dental arches.
The activity was attended by representatives from PT Pagilaran, local government officials, PDGI Pekalongan, and the Prosthodontics Study Program FKG UGM team. Support was also provided by Haleon as part of multi-sector collaboration to strengthen community dental healthcare services. Dr. drg. Sri Barunawati, M.Kes., Sp.Pros., Sub.Sp. PKIKG (K) and drg. Intan Ruspita, M.Kes., Ph.D., Sp.Pros., Sub.Sp. TMJ-OP (K) also attended as representatives of the Prosthodontics Study Program UGM.
This community service initiative demonstrates how dental higher education institutions can make a tangible contribution to society.
Community service is not only an obligation under the higher education Tridharma principle, but also an expression of empathy and commitment toward communities requiring healthcare support.
Education That Reaches the Community
The community service programs conducted by the Prosthodontics Study Program FKG UGM do not merely provide medical treatment, but also strengthen promotive and preventive approaches through oral health education. Education regarding oral hygiene, routine dental examinations, and oral rehabilitation has become an essential component of these activities.
Through collaboration with KAKGIGAMA, IPROSI Yogyakarta Branch, PDGI Pekalongan, PT Pagilaran, and PT Haleon Indonesia, , this initiative is expected to increase public awareness that oral health is an important part of overall quality of life and well-being.
Contributor: drg. Daniel Rino Krismasurya | Reporter: Andri Wicaksono, S.Sos., M.I.Kom