KOLABORASI TERPADU EDUKASI GIGI ANAK, WUJUDKAN SENYUM SEHAT BEBAS KARIES

Abstrak

This program aimed to collaborate dental health education initiative involving schools, health centers, and parents to reduce the prevalence of dental caries among children aged 8–10 years at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Negeri (MIN) Lingga. The study was conducted with 120 students from grades 3, 4, and 5. Visual media-based education, specifically flashcards, was used alongside counseling, tooth-brushing demonstrations, and the distribution of toothbrushes and toothpaste. Pre-intervention data was collected through periodic dental examinations of 67 students to identify existing oral health conditions. Before the program, 50.7% of students examined had cavities, 6.0% had tartar, and only 26.9% had healthy teeth. Post-intervention, students showed significant improvements in oral hygiene practices, particularly in tooth brushing techniques. The program's success was attributed to collaboration between schools, health centers, and parents, supported by a memorandum of understanding. This included regular dental check-ups, teacher training, and parental involvement. Visual media-based education effectively enhanced students' knowledge and skills in oral hygiene. Collaboration among stakeholders was key to the program's success and sustainability. This model is replicable in other regions with similar promotive and preventive health policies for children.