Students from the Pediatric Dentistry Specialist Education Program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) conducted an educational program at SDN Kotagede on 28-29 May 2024. This program was held to promote dental health among children.
Good oral health from an early age is essential to prevent various long-term issues that can affect a child’s growth and development. Unnoticed bad habits, such as chewing food for prolonged periods or mouth-breathing, can lead to health problems ranging from cavities to dental misalignments. By raising children's awareness of the importance of oral hygiene, we can help prevent more serious health issues in the future.
The educational program featured interactive sessions, games, and presentations designed to teach children about harmful oral habits and their consequences. Drg. Arif Rahman, one of the Pediatric Dentistry residents at FKG UGM, explained the purpose of the activity: “We want children to understand the importance of maintaining oral health from an early age. Habits like prolonged pacifier use and chewing food for too long can cause dental problems later in life.”
In addition to providing education, the program offered free dental check-ups. Many students participated in these examinations, and dental issues identified were referred to clinics for further treatment. Parents and teachers also joined discussions on the importance of regular dental care. Siti Sulandri, Principal of SDN Kotagede 1, remarked, “This program helps raise student awareness, and we hope they will maintain these good habits.”
This initiative not only supports student health but also represents FKG UGM’s contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Goal 4 (Quality Education), and Goal 17 (Partnerships to Achieve the Goal). The students hope similar programs will continue in other schools to improve oral health among children and underserved communities.
Contributor : drg. Arif Rahman | Author : Diva Luthfiana | Editor : Maria Shinta
