Dental health education for children is a crucial investment in their future. Establishing good dental care habits early on not only helps maintain oral health but also lays the foundation for a lifelong healthy lifestyle. Children who learn to brush their teeth properly, reduce their intake of sugary foods, and visit the dentist regularly are less likely to experience dental problems such as cavities or tooth decay. This aligns with research by drg. Ignatius Sulityo Jatmiko, M.Kes., Sp.KGA,, and Dr. drg. Indra Bramanti, Sp.KGA (K), M.Sc., which found that using dental puppets in dental health education significantly improves elementary school children's oral health knowledge.
Moreover, good dental health directly impacts overall well-being. Dental infections or gum disease in children can affect their growth and development, including their ability to speak, eat, and learn. Early education also helps children understand the importance of oral hygiene as part of disease prevention.
Parents and schools play a vital role in providing dental health education. Parents can set an example by practicing good dental care habits, while schools can implement engaging educational programs such as interactive games or dental check-up visits. A fun approach makes it easier for children to grasp the importance of maintaining dental health.
Creative educational methods, such as games, have also proven effective. In their study on a dental health-themed snakes and ladders game, drg. Ignatius Sulistyo Jatmiko, M.Kes., Sp.KGA and drg. Putri Kusuma Wardani M., M.Kes., Sp.KGA (K), found that this approach enhances young children's oral health knowledge.
Beyond keeping their teeth clean, dental education helps children feel comfortable and unafraid when visiting the dentist. This sense of trust and comfort encourages them to be more mindful of their oral health as they grow into adulthood.
Dental health education for children is a small step that can lead to significant change. By fostering good habits from an early age, we are not only protecting their smiles today but also shaping a healthier generation in the future.
This education contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, by creating a healthier generation. It also aligns with Goal 4: Quality Education, as dental health education provides practical and relevant knowledge from an early age. Additionally, the promotion of healthy eating habits through this education supports Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by encouraging food choices that benefit overall health.
References
drg. Ignatius Sulistyo Jatmiko, M.Kes., Sp.KGA, Dr. drg. Indra Bramanti, Sp.KGA (K).,M.Sc., The Impact of Using Dental Puppets in Health Education on the Dental and Oral Health Knowledge of Children Aged 9-10 Years (Study on Students of SDN Tamansari 3 Pakuncen Wirobrajan, Yogyakarta), https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/165109
drg. Ignatius Sulistyo Jatmiko, M.Kes., Sp.KGA, drg. Putri Kusuma Wardani M., M.Kes., Sp.KGA (K), The Influence of a Dental Health-Themed Snakes and Ladders Game on the Oral Health Knowledge of Children Aged 4-5 Years, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/233421
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
