SLB Bina Kasih Srumbung in Magelang became the venue for a meaningful event dedicated to children with special needs. Dr. Drg. Cendrawasih AF., M.Kes., Sp.Ort.(K), a leading orthodontic specialist, conducted a dental health screening for students at the school. This event, held on Thursday, 5 December 2024, was part of an initiative to raise awareness and improve oral health care for children who may have limited access to adequate healthcare services.
The screening aimed to provide thorough dental health examinations for the children at SLB Bina Kasih. During the session, Dr. Cendrawasih examined the children’s teeth and oral health, checking for cavities, gum issues, and overall oral hygiene. In addition, she provided educational sessions on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, which plays a crucial role in preventing future dental problems.
Throughout the session, Dr. Cendrawasih focused not only on conducting screenings but also on creating a fun and engaging environment for the children. Using interactive teaching aids and educational games, she demonstrated proper brushing techniques and explained the harmful effects of sugary foods on dental health. For instance, she used a dental model to illustrate the correct way to brush teeth, making the learning process more accessible and enjoyable for the children. This interactive approach proved to be highly effective in capturing the children's attention and encouraging them to take an interest in dental care.
The event was supported by medical personnel and volunteers who assisted in the screening process, ensuring that each child received proper attention and felt comfortable during the check-up. The medical team also provided emotional support to children who felt anxious or scared about the dental examination. By creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, the team helped children overcome their fears and become more open to dental care.
Following the screening, Dr. Cendrawasih provided treatment recommendations for children who required further dental care. For those with dental issues, she advised parents on the necessary steps to take, including referrals to professional dentists for further treatment. Additionally, she educated parents on proper oral care at home, covering effective brushing techniques and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
This initiative aimed to increase awareness of oral health among children and encourage them to develop good dental hygiene habits from an early age. Additionally, the event marked the beginning of a potential long-term collaboration between FKG UGM and SLB Bina Kasih to improve oral health services for children with special needs.
Dr. Cendrawasih emphasized the importance of prioritizing dental care for children with special needs, stating: “This initiative is crucial in ensuring that children with special needs receive equal access to quality dental care. By conducting these screenings, we hope to help them maintain good oral health and improve their overall well-being.”
Beyond its immediate benefits, the event provided an opportunity for medical professionals and volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by children with special needs in dental care. This experience is expected to enhance healthcare professionals’ ability to provide better and more specialized treatment in the future.
With this initiative, children at SLB Bina Kasih are expected to receive better dental care and gain essential knowledge on maintaining their oral health. Dr. Cendrawasih and her team aim to continue similar programs in the future, ensuring that more children benefit from high-quality dental screenings. This initiative also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by supporting: SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, by improving oral healthcare services; SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing dental health education for children; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, by promoting innovative healthcare solutions; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering collaborations between universities and healthcare institutions.
Authors: drg. I Putu Arya Ramadhan, Haqi
