# Behavioral change and oral health literacy among elementary students after a school-based oral health education program
> Panna S.S.

URL kanonis: https://discover.unhas.ac.id/publications/pub_scopus_105040507580
Jurnal / Konferensi: Journal of Education and Health Promotion
Tahun terbit: 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/jehp.jehp_2266_25
ISSN: 22779531
Kuartil SJR: Q2
Citations: 0

## Authors
- Panna S.S.

## Abstract
BACKGROUND: Oral health knowledge and behavior are essential in preventing dental caries among school-aged children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to preventive education is limited. This study aimed to evaluate changes in oral health literacy, behavior, and clinical oral health status among Indonesian elementary students following a school-based oral health education intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study employed a cluster-randomized longitudinal intervention design with pre- and post-test assessments. A total of 582 students aged 8-12 years from public elementary schools in Makassar, Indonesia, were recruited using cluster random sampling and allocated into three groups: Multimedia-based education, conventional education, and a control group. Oral health literacy was assessed using a validated knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) questionnaire with confirmed internal reliability (Cronbach's α >0.80). Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S) and the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index based on the World Health Organization criteria. Data were analyzed statistically to assess associations between literacy and clinical outcomes. RESULTS: < 0.001). Higher oral health literacy was significantly associated with better oral hygiene and lower caries experience. Qualitative findings indicated increased awareness, improved habits, and peer support after the intervention. CONCLUSION: Multimedia-based school oral health education effectively enhances literacy, behaviors, and clinical oral health outcomes. Integrating interactive multimedia into the school curriculum may support sustainable preventive oral health strategies for children.

## Keywords
- Medicine
- Oral hygiene
- Oral health
- Health literacy
- Curriculum
- Health education
- Public health
- Family medicine
- Intervention (counseling)
- Cluster sampling
- Literacy
- Oral examination
- Peer education
- Indonesian
- Behavior change
- Hygiene
- Environmental health
- Self-efficacy
- Simple random sample
- Psychology
- Data collection

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Sumber: Discover Unhas — RIMS Universitas Hasanuddin.
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