Journal of Community Action
Vol. 2 No. 2: Journal of Community Action, April 2026

Preventing Dental Issues from the Start: Oral Health Education for Kindergarten Students in Rural Communities

Sofia Lestari (Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Budi Santoso (Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia)
Anita Sari (Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Apr 2026

Abstract

Oral health issues are a significant concern among children, especially in rural areas where access to dental care and education is limited. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an oral health education program for kindergarten students in rural communities, focusing on preventing dental issues from an early age. The intervention consisted of interactive workshops, including demonstrations on brushing techniques, the importance of oral hygiene, and the impact of diet on dental health. The program was conducted in five rural kindergartens, reaching a total of 150 students. Pre- and post-intervention surveys assessed changes in students' knowledge and practices regarding oral hygiene. Results indicated a significant increase in both knowledge and self-reported brushing habits among the children. In addition, teachers and parents reported improved oral hygiene practices at home, with many parents adopting more active roles in ensuring proper dental care. This study underscores the importance of early intervention in oral health education and highlights the potential for sustainable improvements in children's oral hygiene behaviors in underserved rural areas. By preventing dental issues from the start, this program offers a cost-effective approach to improving long-term oral health outcomes in rural populations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

joca

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Engineering Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Medicine & Pharmacology Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Community Action (JOCA) is a journal that is a scientific forum for community service, published by Lembaga Penelitian dan Pendidikan (LPP) Kalibra with the online registered number of e-ISSN 3110-2549. This multidisciplinary scientific journal in the field of community service with the ...