The Effectiveness of Education Using Animated Videos on Tooth-Brushing Techniques on Plaque Index Scores Among Elementary School Students

Abstract

Oral health in elementary school children requires serious attention because improper brushing habits can cause plaque buildup and increase the risk of dental caries. One effort that can be done is through dental health education using interesting media, such as animated videos, because they are easier to understand and can increase children's interest in learning. This media is also considered effective in conveying information visually and audibly so that children can more easily remember the correct steps for brushing their teeth. This research seeks to ascertain the effectiveness of education using animated videos on how to brush teeth on plaque index scores in students at Darul Hikmah Islamic Elementary School in Makassar City. This research employed a one-group pretest-posttest methodology in a quasi-experimental design. The research sample consisted of 45 students in grades I, II, and III. Plaque scores were measured before and after education using the Patient Hygiene Performance (PHP) method and plaque colour identification with Tri Plaque ID Gel. The findings demonstrated that the average plaque index score before education was 4.42±0.61 and decreased to 2.52±0.46 after education, with a difference decrease  of 1.90. Based on the Tri Plaque ID Gel examination, before the education, blue plaque was found in 22 students, purple in 19 students, and pink in 4 students. After the education, there was a decrease in blue plaque in 12 students and purple to 16 students and an increase in pink plaque in 17 students. The results of the paired sample t-test showed a p value = 0.000, so there was a significant difference. The animated video education was proven to be effective in reducing plaque.