Analysis of the Risk of Dental Caries in Class II Students of SD Negeri 141 Palembang City

Abstract

The prevalence of dental caries in school-age children in South Sumatra is not known, as well as in the city of Palembang. Untreated dental caries can have a negative impact on student health. Quantitative research using analytic survey method through cross sectional approach and involving as many as 90 respondents with total sampling technique conducted in Class II SD Negeri 141 Palembang City. The analysis used the Chi-Square statistical test with a significance degree of p-value <0.05. The results obtained from 90 respondents mostly female 55 (61.1%), working parents 88 (97.8%), high maternal education status 72 (80%), good cariogenic diet pattern 70 (77.8 %), good oral hygiene index 70 (77.8%), good toothbrushing habits 63 (70%), good dental plaque index 70 (77.8%), non-acidic saliva 65 (72.2%), knowledge 62 (68.9%), dental and oral examinations were the same as 45 (50%), had attended health education 80 (88.9%), and 71 (78.9%) did not experience dental caries. There is no relationship between indirect variables: Gender (0.638), Parents' occupation (0.380), and Mother's education (1,000). Direct variables: There is a relationship between oral hygiene index (0.000), toothbrushing habits (0.000), dental plaque index (0.000), salivary acidity (0.000), knowledge (0.045), there is no relationship between cariogenic diet patterns (1,000). Health service variables: There is a relationship between dental and oral health counseling (0.032), there is no relationship between dental and oral examinations (1,000). Oral hygiene index is the most influential variable (p-value = 0.000). The school can work together with the puskesmas or health institution to create a program for regular dental check-ups and dissemination of knowledge about dental caries and involve parents. In addition, students can be given interesting books, or posters that display about dental caries and the importance of maintaining oral hygiene.