For some members of the public, the two most frightening words in a dental practice are “tooth extraction” and “root canal treatment.” Many people postpone visiting the dentist due to fear of pain, traumatic past experiences, or the misconception that a painful tooth must inevitably be extracted. In fact, behind these procedures lies an evolving art and science of preservation—both in oral surgery and endodontics. Responding to this challenge, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), through iDSDC, in collaboration with KAKGIGAMA (the Alumni Family of Dentistry, UGM), held a two-day Dental Workshop and Hands-on Session on Saturday–Sunday, 11–12 October 2025, at Classroom ABC, Dental Learning Center (DLC) Building, FKG UGM. The event featured two expert speakers in their respective fields:
- drg. Dhanni Gustiana, Sp.BMM, Subs TM–TMJ(K) (oral and maxillofacial surgery specialist), and
- drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi, Sp.KG (conservative dentistry specialist).
Both speakers shared not only clinical knowledge but also the philosophy of empathy that lies at the core of modern dental care.
Opening Remarks by the Chair of KAKGIGAMA
The event was officially opened by the Chair of KAKGIGAMA, drg. Endro Sucahyono, M.Kes., who in his remarks emphasized the importance of continuity between knowledge, experience, and humanity.
“Workshops like this are not only spaces for learning skills, but also spaces for cultivating empathy. Because in essence, dentists do not merely fix teeth; they also preserve patients’ smiles and self-confidence,” — drg. Endro Sucahyono, M.Kes.
He also conveyed that KAKGIGAMA is committed to continuously supporting academic activities that strengthen the clinical competence and professional character of young dentists, preparing them to face the ever-evolving challenges of the medical world.
Day One: Workshop and Hands-on Session with drg. Dhanni Gustiana
On the first day, drg. Dhanni Gustiana delivered a session entitled “Management of Local Anesthesia Complications.” This session broadened participants’ perspectives, emphasizing that anesthesia is not merely a technique to numb tissue, but an ethical responsibility to alleviate patient pain safely and humanely.
“Patients do not care how sophisticated our tools are; what matters to them is that they do not feel pain,” said drg. Dhanni, reminding participants that the success of clinical procedures is measured not only by medical outcomes, but also by patient comfort.
In addition to discussing theory and clinical cases, the session instilled reflective values: every anesthetic procedure is an expression of empathy.
Day Two: Endodontic Workshop and Hands-on Session with drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi
The second day continued with a hands-on themed “Precision in Root Canal Treatment” led by drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi, Sp.KG. In direct practice, participants trained in performing root canal treatment with precision and full control, including access preparation, cleaning, shaping, and coronal (obturation).
“In endodontics, we do not work only with instruments, but with a patient heart and mindful hands,” said drg. Hendargo, emphasizing the importance of balance between knowledge and empathy.
This session became a profound learning moment for participants, enhancing not only technical skills but also the understanding that saving a tooth means preserving a small yet valuable life within it.
Participant Impressions and Reflections
Many participants admitted that the activity opened new perspectives on the dental profession. They realized that behind precise procedures lies an equally important human dimension.
“I learned that being a dentist is not only about skilled hands, but also about a calm heart,” said one participant after the event.
Nurturing a Generation of Humanistic Dentists
This two-day event successfully integrated scientific knowledge, skills training, and humanitarian values into a holistic learning experience. Through the support of KAKGIGAMA and cross-disciplinary collaboration, FKG UGM continues to encourage the emergence of dentists who are precise, adaptive, and humanistic—dentists who not only heal, but also provide reassurance.
As the event concluded on Sunday afternoon, participants returned home carrying not only certificates, but also renewed enthusiasm to continue learning, serving, and preserving patients’ smiles with full awareness.
Author & Photo: Dody Hendro W
