<![CDATA[Dental caries is a dental health problem that generally occurs in children, one of which can be prevented through the use of fluoride. Parental knowledge is essential to form appropriate attitudes and actions in preventing caries in children, especially in terms of safe and effective use of fluoride.This study aimed to understand the relationship between parental knowledge about the use of fluoride and the prevention of dental caries in children aged 5-9 years at RSGMP Unhas. This study used an analytical design with a cross-sectional method. Sampling was carried out by accidental sampling technique on 60 parent respondents who had children aged 5-9 years at RSGMP Unhas. The instrument is in the form of a closed questionnaire that has been tested for validity using the Pearson Product correlation (r calculated > 0.361; p < 0.05) and was declared valid, and the reliability test with Cronbach's Alpha was 0.828 for the knowledge variable and 0.563 for the fluoride use variable. Data analysis was carried out by Chi-Square test at a significance level of 0.05. There was a significant relationship between parental knowledge level and fluoride use (p=0.000). The higher the knowledge, the more likely it is to apply the use of fluoride through toothpaste, mouthwash, or clinic apiation. Parental knowledge plays a crucial role in efforts to prevent dental caries in children. Therefore, it is important to improve structured education to encourage optimal use of fluoride.]]>
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