ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENT'S KNOWLEDGE ABOUT CARIES USING DENTAL STORY STICKER MEDIA

Abstract

Background: Dental and oral health problems remain an important issue in Indonesia. These
problems are not only experienced by adults but also by children, especially elementary school
students. One of the most common issues is dental caries, which is caused by a lack of
knowledge among children about tooth decay. A total of 79% of students experience dental
caries, while 21% are caries-free. This result is lower compared to data from the 2023 Indonesia
Health Survey (SKI), which showed that the proportion of caries-free children aged 10–14
years was 35.5%. Object: This study aims to describe the level of knowledge about dental
caries among fourth-grade students at SDN Ploso I Surabaya before and after receiving
education using the dental story sticker media. Methode: The study employed a descriptive
design with a pretest and posttest approach. The research sample consisted of all fourth-grade
students (classes 4A and 4B) at SDN Ploso I Surabaya, totaling 42 students, selected using a
total sampling technique. Data were collected using a questionnaire, and the responses were
analyzed by calculating averages and converting them into percentages. Results: The results
indicated that students’ knowledge before the intervention was at a moderate level, but after
the health education using the dental story sticker media, it improved to a good level.
Conclusion : This media effectively helped students understand the importance of maintaining
oral health and preventing dental caries through an engaging and enjoyable learning approach.