Oral Health Literacy Level and Biofilm Maturation as Risk Indicators for Dental Caries and Gingivitis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background. In Indonesia, dental and oral disorders are prevalent, with dental caries and gingivitis being the most common types of tooth decay in elementary school children. Gingivitis affects 90% of the world's population, with 80% of those affected being children under 12. Oral health literacy, which includes reading, writing, arithmetic, speaking, listening, and making sound decisions, is crucial for preventing oral diseases. Methods. A study involving 82 primary school students. The study used a modified OHL-AQ questionnaire and the GC triPlaque ID Gel™ (TPID) technique to assess biofilm maturation Results. The results showed a significant link between oral health literacy and biofilm maturation, suggesting that inadequate oral health literacy increases the risk of dental caries. Conclusions. Inadequate oral health literacy increases biofilm maturation and the risk of dental caries. Keywords: Health literacy, Biofilm, Dental Caries, Gingivitis, Cross-Sectional Study