Indonesian Oral Biology Association (PBOI): Great Generation, Free from Caries – A Movement Towards a Caries-Free Indonesia 2030
Oral health is an inseparable part of overall health. However, data show that dental and oral diseases, particularly caries, remain a major health issue in Indonesia. Based on the latest Basic Health Research (Riskesdas), the prevalence of dental caries in Indonesia has reached more than 88%, indicating that most Indonesians still lack awareness and adequate access to preventive and dental care. Community Service was held on 25 July 2025, at the PGAI Orphanage, Padang, West Sumatra.
Dental caries, though seemingly simple, has a significant impact on quality of life. Pain, eating difficulties, decreased learning concentration in children, as well as school and work absenteeism, are among the consequences. This condition can hinder the emergence of a healthy, productive, and highly competitive generation—something crucial in preparing for Golden Indonesia 2045.
As a form of contribution to addressing this challenge, the Indonesian Oral Biology Association took the initiative to hold an event themed “Great Generation, Free from Caries: A Movement Towards a Caries-Free Indonesia 2030.”This activity aimed to educate the public, raise collective awareness, and strengthen synergy among health workers, the government, and the community in preventing and controlling caries from an early age.
By involving the academic community, health professionals, and the wider society, this activity became part of a collective effort to create a healthier, more prosperous, and empowered Indonesian society. Through this initiative, it is expected to generate sustainable positive impacts for the children of PGAI Orphanage Padang, while also serving as a concrete step toward a caries-free Indonesia by 2030. This initiative is not only a social activity but also part of a national movement to build a great generation that is healthy in all aspects—physically, mentally, and socially.
The dental and oral health education session at PGAI Orphanage Padang ran smoothly and received very positive responses. A total of 60 participants took part in the event, consisting of 50 children from the orphanage and 10 caregivers. The participants enthusiastically engaged in the program from start to finish.
The session began with the presentation of materials on the importance of maintaining oral health, types of dental diseases, and their impact on overall health. The materials were delivered interactively, using visual aids such as educational posters and short animated videos, making them easy to understand for children of various ages.
After the education session, a demonstration on the correct toothbrushing technique was conducted using a large dental model. The children were then invited to practice toothbrushing together under the guidance of the organizing team. This activity became both fun and educational, as many children learned for the first time about proper brushing techniques recommended by dentists.
In addition, all participants received dental hygiene kits consisting of toothbrushes and toothpaste. Caregivers were also provided with supplementary materials on how to guide children in maintaining their daily oral health.
Author: Andri Wicaksono | Photo: Documentation of Oral Biology Department, FKG UGM
