The role of a teacher extends beyond education to include the physical health of their students. One important aspect that is often overlooked is oral health, which directly impacts the quality of life and students' ability to learn.
The Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada invited five elementary schools in Yogyakarta to participate in the School Health Program (SHP) Cadre Training. This activity is part of the National Dental Health Month (BKGN) 2024 series. Participating schools include SDIT Ash-Siddiq, SLBN 2 Yogyakarta, SD Budi Utama, SDIT KBRA Baiturrahman, and SDIT Bakti Insani.
drg. Silviana Farrah Diba, Sp.RKG(K), Chair of BKGN UGM 2024, explained that the purpose of the SHP cadre training is to raise awareness of the importance of oral health among teachers so they can act as health cadres in their schools. “At the end of October, we will also hold a roadshow to the schools of the SHP cadres to conduct outreach and dental check-ups,” she said.
The training participants, consisting of teachers, will be provided with information on how to maintain oral health and are expected to spread this knowledge to students at their schools.
drg. Achmad Zam Zam Aghasy, M.Kes, emphasized that maintaining oral hygiene is vital to improving quality of life. “If oral hygiene is neglected, it will affect comfort. If you have a toothache, you need to see a dentist, which takes time and money. So, it’s very important to maintain oral hygiene from an early age,” explained Zam Zam.
He also emphasized the importance of brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, especially after meals and before bedtime.
In young children, there is a tendency to suck their thumb. This is a normal and natural behavior as babies have a sucking reflex that develops before birth. This habit helps children feel calm and comfortable.
According to drg. Shoimah Alfa Makmur, MDSc., Sp.KGA, this phase is commonly seen in children up to the age of 3. However, if it continues, it may negatively impact their oral condition and affect tooth growth.
“This habit can put pressure on the soft tissues in the palate and upper jaw, interfering with tooth development and facial structure,” explained drg. Shoimah.
After receiving the training materials from the lecturers, the cadres also practiced brushing techniques using dental models. The teachers appeared enthusiastic and engaged in every session of the training. It is hoped that through this collaboration, teachers will be able to educate students on the importance of maintaining oral health and hygiene.
Author: Fajar Budi H. | Photo: Fajar Budi H.
