Workshop by drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi, Sp.KG at FKG UGM invites participants to understand the deeper meaning of precise and humane endodontic treatment
For some people, a severely painful tooth is often considered “no longer useful” and must be extracted immediately. However, behind this perception lies an extraordinary art and science of preservation—an art that strives to protect life from within the tooth itself. This is the meaning highlighted in the workshop by drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi, Sp.KG at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, which discussed root canal treatment , held on 12 October 2025. The workshop, delivered by drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi, Sp.KG, was also organized through collaboration between the Faculty of Dentistry UGM via iDSDC (Interdisciplinary Dentistry Skills and Development Center) and KAKGIGAMA (the Alumni Family of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada). This collaboration represents a tangible commitment by FKG UGM to improving the quality of human resources in dental health through scientifically based training and hands-on practice.
“We are not merely fixing teeth, but preserving the small life within them so it can continue to function,” — drg. Hendargo Agung Pribadi, Sp.KG
Why a Painful Tooth Is Still Worth Saving
drg. Hendargo explained that the primary goal of endodontic treatment is to prevent and treat apical periodontitis, which is inflammation at the tip of the tooth root, often caused by bacterial infection originating from the pulp. This procedure allows a diseased tooth to be maintained in the oral cavity without extraction, thereby preserving chewing function, aesthetics, and jaw structure. According to him, the success of root canal treatment depends not only on technical skills, but also on accurate diagnosis and empathy for patients who come with fear. “Patients come not only carrying pain, but also fear. We must remain calm so that they can also feel calm,” he added.
Precision and Interconnected Stages
The workshop reviewed the “endodontic triad” —three essential aspects of successful root canal treatment:
- Accurate diagnosis and access,
- Cleaning and shaping of the canal, and
- Perfect sealing (obturation and sealing).
Each stage is interconnected, much like harmony in a medical orchestra. A small mistake at the beginning, such as improper access or inadequate isolation, can result in long-term failure. In his presentation, drg. Hendargo presented data from the International Endodontic Journal (Gulabivala et al., 2023) , showing that treatments with perfect access and isolation have success rates of over 90 percent within two years..
Meticulousness and Sincerity
Amid the technical discussion, drg. Hendargo emphasized that the art of endodontics lies in patience. This treatment requires time, meticulousness, and sincerity—because what is being treated is not merely dead tissue, but a small and complex living space.
“When we save one tooth, we are actually maintaining the balance of the entire body. There is nothing small in this work.” For workshop participants, this statement served as a reminder that behind precise clinical actions lies a profound human value: respect for life, regardless of how small it may be.
From Clinic to Life Philosophy
Workshop ini bukan hanya pelatihan tentang teknik root canaltechniques, but also a reflection on a dentist’s responsibility toward the meaning and feeling behind their work. Every action, no matter how small, can be a form of dedication—preserving hope in something that may seem “useless.” Root canal treatment teaches one important lesson: not everything that is painful must be removed, and not everything that is damaged cannot be saved.
Author & Photo: Dody Hendro W
