Dental health among adolescents is crucial and requires attention to ensure their development and growth proceed well. Common dental health issues, such as cavities and gum disease, can impact oral health and quality of life, including learning abilities and daily activities. Preventing dental and oral diseases should begin as early as possible to avoid more serious issues in the future.
On 6 September 2024, the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) conducted health socialization and dental check-ups at SMP Negeri 1 Yogyakarta. The event was led by Dr. drg. R. Tri Endra Untara, M.Kes., Sp.KG.(K), and drg. Pribadi Santoso, M.S., Sp.KG.(K) from the Department of Conservative Dentistry.
The aim of this initiative was to raise students' awareness about the importance of maintaining dental and oral health. During the event, drg. Tri Endra and drg. Pribadi explained various dental care techniques, from proper brushing methods to disease prevention. Additionally, there were direct examinations of students, evaluations of dental conditions, and recommendations for care, if necessary, from drg. Tri Endra and drg. Pribadi.
“Through this activity, we want to ensure that students understand the importance of early dental care and have access to the information and treatment they need to prevent future dental health issues,” said drg. Tri Endra.
Kegiatan ini mendapat respon positif dari pihak SMP Negeri 1 dan siswa. FKG UGM menunjukkan komitmennya untuk berkontribusi positif kepada masyarakat, khususnya dalam meningkatkan kesadaran tentang kesehatan gigi dan mulut di kalangan pelajar. Dengan melibatkan para profesional dalam sosialisasi dan pemeriksaan, diharapkan siswa dapat lebih sadar akan pentingnya perawatan kesehatan gigi dan menerapkannya dalam kehidupan sehari-hari.
Kegiatan ini juga mendukung program pembangunan berkualitas (SDGs) khususnya SDGs tujuan ke-3 (Kesehatan yang Baik dan Kesejahteraan), SDGs tujuan ke-4 (Pendidikan Berkualitas) dan SDGs tujuan ke-17 (Kemitraan untuk Mencapai Tujuan). Melalui upaya ini, diharapkan siswa lebih sadar akan pentingnya perawatan kesehatan gigi dan mulut serta dapat menerapkan dalam kehidupan sehari-hari.
Authors: drg Henytaria Fajrianti, Sp.KG and Diva Luthfiana
