Dental caries is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children worldwide, including in Indonesia. Elementary school-aged children (6–12 years) are in a critical phase of permanent tooth development and habit formation. Therefore, early caries prevention is a strategic step to maintain oral health and prevent long-term impacts on general health.
The Importance of Early Caries Prevention
Dental caries occurs due to complex interactions between plaque microorganisms, carbohydrate intake, and tooth surface susceptibility. When oral hygiene is poor, bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus metabolize sugars into acids that cause enamel demineralization. This process occurs gradually and often goes unnoticed until pain or cavities develop.
Prevention during elementary school age is essential because children begin to develop independence in personal hygiene but still require parental supervision. Children are also more frequently exposed to sugary snacks at school, increasing caries risk if not accompanied by proper toothbrushing habits.
The Role of Parents in Caries Prevention
A study conducted by a Faculty of Dentistry UGM student, Diah Ayu Pratiwi S., under the supervision of drg. Ivan Arie Wahyudi, M.Kes., Ph.D. and drg. Elastria Widita, M.Sc., Ph.D., entitled “The Relationship between Parenting Style and Dental Caries in Children Aged 6–12 Years: A Systematic Review,” showed that parenting style is a key factor in caries prevention. Children whose parents actively guide toothbrushing habits, limit sugar consumption, and routinely take their children to the dentist have a lower risk of caries than children with minimal supervision.
Permissive parenting styles or lack of attention to oral hygiene often result in children not brushing properly or consuming sweet foods too frequently. In contrast, democratic parenting styles that emphasize education, role modeling, and communication have been shown to encourage children to be more aware of the importance of oral hygiene.
School-Based Caries Prevention Strategies
In addition to family involvement, the school environment plays a major role in shaping children’s oral health behavior. The School Dental Health Program (UKGS) can be an effective platform for educating students about proper toothbrushing, recognizing early signs of caries, and the importance of regular dental visits.
Activities such as mass toothbrushing, oral hygiene competitions, and interactive education sessions have been shown to increase children’s awareness. Collaboration among healthcare providers, teachers, and parents can strengthen the impact of these programs. Providing handwashing and mouth-rinsing facilities at schools and monitoring sugary snack consumption also help reduce caries risk.
A Multisectoral and Sustainable Approach
Caries prevention in elementary school children cannot be carried out by a single party. A multisectoral approach involving healthcare professionals, educational institutions, government, and the community is required. Strengthening promotive and preventive programs in pediatric dentistry will be a significant long-term health investment.
In addition, digital technology can now be utilized for interactive education through applications, animated videos, and social media campaigns that teach children the importance of oral health in an engaging way.
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Caries prevention in elementary school children is a shared responsibility among parents, schools, and healthcare professionals. Through good habit formation, continuous education, and supportive environments, caries incidence can be significantly reduced. Positive parenting serves as the main foundation for children to grow with healthy, strong teeth and confident smiles.
References
DIAH AYU PRATIWI. S, drg. Ivan Arie Wahyudi, M.Kes., Ph.D.; drg. Elastria Widita, M.Sc., Ph.D., “Hubungan Pola Asuh Orang Tua dengan Karies Gigi pada Anak Usia 6–12 Tahun: Sebuah Tinjauan Sistematis”, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/200543
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
