Prevalence of Gingivitis and Dental Caries in Early Childhood: A Cross-Sectional Study at TK Tat Twam Asi, Pesanggrahan, South Jakarta

Introduction: Oral health is an integral part of overall health, yet it is often neglected in global and national policies. Periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and dental caries are major issues in children that can affect their quality of life. This study was conducted to identify the prevalence of periodontal disease and dental caries among children at TK Tat Twam Asi, Pesanggrahan, South Jakarta. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the oral health status and dental care habits of children. Method: The research employed a cross-sectional design with random sampling techniques. The sample consisted of 36 children aged 3–6 years. Data were collected through dental examinations and parent/guardian questionnaires. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 24. Conclusion: The study found that 97.2% of children had gingivitis, and 86.1% had dental caries. Key risk factors included poor brushing habits, frequent consumption of sugary foods, and low use of fluoride toothpaste. This study highlights the importance of educating parents about oral hygiene, promoting healthy eating habits, and improving access to preventive dental care to reduce the prevalence of oral diseases in children.