Did you know that maintaining good oral health from an early age can prevent serious health issues later in life? Instilling good dental hygiene habits from a young age is a crucial step in ensuring that future generations grow up with optimal health.
With this in mind, the Department of Radiology at FKG UGM organized a community service activity for students at Aisyiyah Randubelang Kindergarten (3/01). This initiative aimed to increase awareness and promote better dental and oral health among young children through education and direct examinations.
The educational session was delivered interactively using engaging visual aids, making it easier for children to understand the importance of good habits such as regular brushing and maintaining a healthy diet. The event saw the participation of 101 kindergarten students.
Following the educational session, dental check-ups were conducted by professional dental students under the supervision of lecturers from the Dentomaxillofacial Radiology Department. These examinations aimed to detect early dental and oral health issues among children, such as cavities and plaque buildup.
Drg. Rini Widyaningrum stated that the examination results would be shared with the students’ parents, along with recommendations for further treatment. "We hope this activity not only provides direct benefits to the kindergarten students but also raises awareness about the importance of maintaining dental and oral health from an early age," said Rini.
She emphasized that maintaining oral hygiene can begin with simple daily habits. "Children should get used to brushing their teeth after breakfast and before bed," she said. She also highlighted the importance of avoiding sugary foods that can lead to tooth decay. At the very least, children should rinse their mouths after consuming sweets to prevent food particles from sticking to their teeth.
Randubelang Kindergarten Principal, Dwi Tresno Kuswanti, expressed gratitude for the opportunity given to her students to receive dental health education and check-ups. "Our students were very enthusiastic about participating in this activity. They listened attentively to the materials presented," said Kuswanti. During the dental check-ups, some students were hesitant to open their mouths, fearing that their teeth would be extracted. However, after receiving support and explanations, they eventually agreed to be examined.
"That’s just how children are—sometimes they feel anxious when facing a doctor (dentist)," Kuswanti said with a smile.
This initiative is part of FKG UGM’s ongoing community service efforts, reflecting its commitment to contributing to society. By fostering collaboration between educational institutions, FKG UGM continues to strive toward improving dental and oral health among younger generations.
Author and Photo: Fajar Budi H.
