Hubungan Ph Saliva Dan Perilaku Anak Dalam Menjaga Kesehatan Gigi Dengan Terjadinya Karies Gigi Pada Anak Usia Prasekolah

Abstract

Dental caries is a multifactorial process that occurs through interactions between teeth and saliva as the host, bacteria in the oral cavity, and easily fermentable foods. Indirectly, saliva affects the process of caries because saliva always wets the teeth so that it affects the environment in the oral cavity. In Indonesia, there has been a change in diet as a result of the increasing use of refined carbohydrates or in everyday life known as confectionery, chocolate and other snacks that contain a lot of sucrose, these foods generally easily stick to the surface of the teeth, then cause tooth decay. The purpose of the study: Assessing the relationship between salivary pH and children's behavior in maintaining dental health with the occurrence of dental caries in preschool-aged children. Methodology: The method used was an analytic survey with a cross-sectional design type, a population of 50 children from Kindergarten Ananda Bagasasi, taking samples using total sampling. Data analysis used statistical tests with the Spearman test The results of the study: A total of 25 children (50%) had a high risk of dental caries, 24 children (48%) had an acidic salivary pH, and 29 children (58%) had good behavior in maintaining dental health. The Spearman test results obtained significant values of 0.000 and 0.006. Conclusion: There is a relationship between salivary pH and children's behavior in maintaining dental health with the occurrence of dental caries in preschool-aged children. It is recommended for health centers, especially dental therapists, to further increase counseling to preschool children about the importance of maintaining oral and dental health.