Mon, 17 Feb 2025
JIMBARAN – Widiatmika Kindergarten once again held a group tooth brushing activity on Friday, February 14, 2025, as part of its effort to instill the habit of maintaining oral and dental health from an early age. This program not only teaches proper tooth brushing techniques but also raises students' awareness of the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
"Teaching children to brush their teeth regularly is a good habit that should be developed early. Besides keeping their teeth and mouth clean, this practice also helps prevent various issues such as cavities and bleeding gums," said Widiatmika Kindergarten A1 teacher, Ni Nyoman Sawitri.
More than just keeping teeth clean and healthy, Sawitri explained that the group tooth brushing activity has various benefits, including fostering healthy living habits, preventing dental and oral diseases, increasing awareness of the importance of oral hygiene, and boosting children's self-confidence.
As a monthly routine, this activity is conducted every second and fourth Friday of the month, involving teachers and dentists as mentors. Before practicing tooth brushing, students are first given an understanding of the importance of brushing their teeth regularly and the negative effects of neglecting this habit.
"We want to instill early awareness that dental health is essential so that children can avoid various problems like cavities," Sawitri explained.
In addition to providing awareness, Widiatmika Kindergarten also teaches the correct tooth brushing techniques. Children are guided to brush their teeth in circular motions, tilt their toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards their gums and teeth, and ensure that all areas, especially the back teeth, are properly cleaned.
Sawitri added that students responded very positively to this activity. They were excited and enthusiastic because they could learn while interacting with their friends. More than that, the program has proven to bring real changes in children's daily habits.
"After participating in this activity regularly, many children have become accustomed to brushing their teeth before bed and reducing their consumption of sugary foods like candy and chocolate," she concluded.
Through this initiative, Widiatmika Kindergarten remains committed to shaping a healthier generation by promoting simple yet impactful habits that contribute significantly to children's well-being in the future.
___