Residents of the Pediatric Dentistry Specialist Program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), conducted a dental health examination at Gedongtengen Elementary School, Yogyakarta, on 18 October 2024. The primary objective of this activity was to assess the impact of improper oral habits on the dental health of elementary school students. This initiative aligns with efforts to promote accessible healthcare services and basic education, in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During the examination, it was found that most children at Gedongtengen Elementary School still exhibited improper oral habits, such as irregular tooth brushing and neglecting the use of dental floss. These issues were largely due to a lack of knowledge and education about proper dental care. The findings highlight the need for educational programs emphasizing fundamental oral health knowledge to instill healthy habits from an early age.
The residents also engaged students in interactive sessions, teaching them the importance of maintaining oral hygiene through fun and educational activities. Creative methods such as games and visual aids were used to enhance students' understanding of proper oral care, including regular tooth brushing, flossing, and the importance of visiting the dentist.
This initiative underscores the importance of partnerships between educational institutions, healthcare providers, and the community. Such collaborations are essential in creating sustainable health programs and improving access to dental care, particularly in communities with limited healthcare access. The free dental check-ups provided to students represent a tangible step toward bridging this gap.
This program also showcases the creativity and innovation of FKG UGM students in educating children about the importance of oral health. Through engaging and effective approaches, they successfully inspired children to take better care of their teeth.
This initiative has become a successful and sustainable health program in Yogyakarta. With a focus on education, partnerships, and innovation, this program can have a positive impact on improving children's oral health while supporting the achievement of SDGs, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Contributor: drg. Arif Rahman Setyawan | Author: Diva Luthfiana L
