Laughter echoed across the courtyard of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Ma’arif NU Pesawahan, Banyumas, as hundreds of students simultaneously participated in a mass toothbrushing activity. Accompanied by lecturers and students from FKG UGM, a total of 158 students from grades 1 to 6 enthusiastically followed each instruction during the event held on Saturday (2/11).
This activity was part of a community service program conducted by the Department of Dental Biomedics, FKG UGM, chaired by drg. Mayu Winnie Rachmawati, M.Sc., Ph.D., and involved collaboration among lecturers, students, and alumni. The program aimed to raise students’ awareness of the importance of maintaining oral and dental health from an early age through hands-on practice.
Before the toothbrushing session, students received education on oral hygiene habits, the impact of consuming sugary foods, and proper toothbrushing techniques. They were then guided to practice correct brushing using the Modified Bass method.
This technique involves positioning the toothbrush at approximately a 45-degree angle along the gum margin, followed by small vibratory movements and sweeping motions toward the tooth surface. “This method makes it easier for children to reach food debris between teeth and along the gumline, areas that are often missed and become the starting point for cavities,” explained drg. Mayu.
Children aged 6–13 are not yet fully capable of maintaining oral hygiene independently. Therefore, teachers play a crucial role in fostering good habits from an early age. Through supervision and routine activities such as mass toothbrushing, teachers can help children understand proper dental care while instilling a sense of personal responsibility.
The activity was warmly welcomed by the school community. One of the teachers, Mr. Ozan, expressed that the program provided significant benefits for students. “The children now understand how to brush their teeth properly, and we hope activities like this can be conducted regularly,” he said.
The entire series of activities ran smoothly and enthusiastically. In addition to providing hands-on experience, the program is expected to improve oral hygiene habits among students and reduce the risk of dental caries from an early age.
Report: Singgih | Editor: Fajar Budi Harsakti
Documentation: Community Service Team, Department of Dental Biomedics
