Maintaining dental health in children from an early age is a crucial step in ensuring their optimal growth and development. Often, cavities in children are considered a normal occurrence, but in fact, this condition can be prevented with proper care. Good dental hygiene not only prevents pain but also helps children focus on learning, sleep soundly, and enjoy nutritious food. One effective example of dental health education comes from the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), which conducted direct education for elementary school students in Kotagede, Yogyakarta.. This activity aims to instill the habit of maintaining dental hygiene from an early age, so that the risk of cavities can be reduced.
Brushing Habits
The first step in preventing cavities is to get children into the habit of brushing their teeth twice a day, especially after meals and before bed. During FKG UGM's activity at SDN Kotagede, children were taught how to brush their teeth properly using age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protects it from acids that can cause damage. Through this education, children not only learn how to brush their teeth correctly but also understand the importance of consistently maintaining oral hygiene.
Healthy Eating Habits
In addition to brushing habits, a healthy diet plays a major role in preventing cavities. Excessive sugar consumption increases the risk of tooth decay. Therefore, education like that provided by FKG UGM emphasizes the importance of limiting sweet foods and sugary drinks. Children are reminded to choose nutritious foods such as vegetables, fruits, and dairy products rich in calcium and vitamin D to support healthy teeth and bones. Drinking water after meals is also recommended to help rinse away food particles from the teeth.
Regular Dental Visits
Regular dental visits are equally important. Periodic check-ups allow for early detection of any signs of tooth damage or other issues, ensuring that children receive appropriate care. In FKG UGM's educational program, children are also taught not to fear visiting the dentist. This approach helps them feel more comfortable with regular dental examinations. Some dentists even offer preventive services such as fluoride applications or dental sealants, which act as protective coatings on tooth surfaces to prevent cavities.
The education provided by FKG UGM to students at SDN Kotagede on the importance of maintaining dental hygiene supports the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Goal 4: Quality Education, which aims to provide quality education for all, particularly children. This program imparts practical knowledge that children can apply in their daily lives.
The risk of cavities in children can be minimized from an early age through a combination of good brushing habits, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits. FKG UGM’s educational initiative at SDN Kotagede is a concrete step in teaching healthy habits to children. This effort not only protects their current dental health but also provides a strong foundation for long-term health, supporting their overall development.
By focusing on preventing cavities in children through good dental hygiene habits and dental visits, this is highly relevant to SDG Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages, including children, while reducing preventable diseases.
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
