International Journal of Dentistry Research 2026; 11(1): 1-6 DOI:10.31254/dentistry.2026.11101

Research Article

The Relationship Between Operator Communication Skills and Patient Compliance in Undergoing Root Canal Treatment Procedures at RSGMP UNEJ

Adnan Dwiprakosa¹ , Hestieyonini Hadnyanawati^2,3 , Surartono Dwiatmoko³ , Zahara Meilawaty⁴ , Nadie Fatimatuzzahro⁴

Adnan Dwiprakosa,Hestieyonini Hadnyanawati,Surartono Dwiatmoko,Zahara Meilawaty,Nadie Fatimatuzzahro

1. Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jember, Jember, East Java, 68121, Indonesia
2. Dental Hospital University of Jember, Jember, East Java, 68121, Indonesia
3. Department of Public Health and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jember, Jember, East Java, 68121, Indonesia
4. Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jember, Jember, East Java, 68121, Indonesia

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 18th July, 2025 / Revised: 1st January, 1970 / Accepted: 14th January, 2026 / Published : 29th April, 2026

Abstract

Background: Caries has a prevalence of 45.3% in Indonesia based on Basic Health Research (RISKESDAS) data. Untreated caries can develop into pulp disease that requires root canal treatment (conventional endodontics). Root canal treatment requires procedures in several visits, thus requiring patient compliance to complete the treatment series from examination to follow-up visits. Objective: This study aims to determine the relationship between operator communication skills and patient compliance in undergoing root canal treatment procedures at RSGMP UNEJ. Materials & Method: This study used an observational analytical method with a cross-sectional design. This study used two variables, namely operator communication skills and patient compliance in undergoing root canal treatment. Data on operator communication skills were obtained through questionnaires, while patient compliance data were obtained through reviewing patient card status. Results: Of the 30 respondents, the percentage of operator communication skills showed that 80% of operators were in the skilled category and 20% were in the less skilled category. A total of 28 of the 30 respondents were compliant patients, resulting in a percentage of 93.4% compliant patients and 6.6% non-compliant patients. Based on statistical tests, the Pearson Chi-Square value with Asymp. Sig. (2-sided) of 0.003 (<0.05). Conclusion: There is a relationship between operator communication skills and patient compliance in undergoing root canal treatment at RSGMP UNEJ.