Peningkatan Pengetahuan dan Keterampilan Menyikat Gigi pada Siswa Sekolah Dasar melalui Demonstrasi Phantom Gigi

Oral and dental health problems among elementary school children remain relatively high, particularly dental caries, which is influenced by low levels of knowledge and inadequate toothbrushing skills. Children aged 6–12 years are in the mixed dentition phase and therefore require special attention in maintaining oral hygiene. This community service activity aimed to improve the knowledge and toothbrushing skills of elementary school students through a demonstration method using a dental phantom model. The activity was conducted at SD Inpres Maccini Sombala I in January 2026 and involved elementary school students as participants. The methods applied included oral health education, demonstration of proper toothbrushing techniques using a dental phantom, mass toothbrushing practice, and evaluation through pre-test and post-test as well as direct observation. The results showed an improvement in students’ understanding of the correct timing, frequency, and technique of toothbrushing, namely brushing twice a day after breakfast and before bedtime. In addition, students were able to practice proper toothbrushing techniques more effectively after the demonstration. The use of a dental phantom as an educational medium proved to be effective in increasing students’ interest, understanding, and toothbrushing skills. This activity is expected to help establish good toothbrushing habits from an early age and support promotive and preventive efforts to reduce the prevalence of dental caries among elementary school children.