Bontang, September 2024 – In celebration of Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the Association of Parents of Children with Down Syndrome (POTADS) in Bontang, in collaboration with the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), organized two significant events aimed at enhancing parents' understanding of dental health care and physiotherapy for children with Down Syndrome. The events were attended by parents, teachers, and health practitioners concerned with improving the quality of life for children with Down Syndrome.
Sharing Session: Maintaining and Caring for Dental Health in Children with Down Syndrome
On 7 September 2024, the first event, a Sharing Session themed “Maintaining and Caring for Dental Health in Children with Down Syndrome” featured two speakers, Rieza Zulfahmi Taftazani and Muhammad Fiqih Sabilillah, Ph.D. students from FKG UGM. This session provided in-depth knowledge about the importance of maintaining dental health in children with Down Syndrome, who are at a higher risk for dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.
In addition to explanations about dental health conditions, the session included hands-on practice on proper tooth-brushing techniques for children with physical and mental limitations, as well as the use of appropriate aids for children with Down Syndrome. The event was not limited to discussions and education; it also included direct dental examinations for children with Down Syndrome. Through these examinations, parents gained a clearer picture of their children's dental health conditions and the steps they could take to prevent further issues.
“Children with Down Syndrome often face additional challenges in maintaining oral hygiene due to their unique biological and physiological conditions. We hope that parents can better understand the appropriate ways to help their children maintain good dental health,” said Rieza Zulfahmi during his presentation.
This activity supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4 Quality Education, and SDG 17 Partnership to Achieve the Goals.
Authors: Rieza zulfahmi Taftazani, Suci Agustina, Al Haqi Insan Pratama
