On July 12, 2025, the Depo Jayakarta Recycling Station in Sawah Besar, Jakarta, became a place of hope and learning for local residents. Seventy-three children, adults, and elderly community members received not only free dental care, but also practical education on oral hygiene—empowering them to take charge of their health, one smile at a time.

Building Healthy Habits Through Understanding

For many in Indonesia, brushing teeth is a morning ritual, often performed out of habit rather than understanding.

“Many people brush their teeth simply because it’s part of their morning routine, not because they understand the reason behind it. The real purpose is to remove food debris, so brushing after meals is important.”
Dr. Linda-Verniati Tjokrosuwirjo, Orthodontic Specialist

Dr. Tjokrosuwirjo noted that cultural influences, such as the popular children’s song “Bangun Tidur” (“Wake Up Song”), have shaped habits—prompting parents to ask children if they’ve brushed their teeth right after waking, even before breakfast. She emphasized the need to correct this routine, encouraging families to brush after meals for better oral health.

A Day of Care and Learning

The dental outreach event welcomed people of all ages. Zahra, a fifth-grade student, was delighted after her cavity was filled. “From now on, I’ll brush my teeth more carefully to keep them clean,” she shared. Suliana, 30, also received treatment and expressed her gratitude for the attentive care. She hoped such clinics would continue, noting their value not just in treatment but in education.

“I realized I’ve been brushing my teeth the wrong way. I should use a circular motion, not just brush randomly. I’ll follow Dr. Chou’s advice from now on.” Zahra said.

Linda Purwanti, 43, had two teeth extracted after learning her cavities had affected the nerves. She reflected, “This clinic is really helpful and should continue. Many people ignore dental problems. Without events like this, they wouldn’t bother seeing a dentist.”

Bridging Cultures, Sharing Compassion

This event was made even more special by the participation of students from Tzu Chi University in Taiwan. Yu-Hsuan Lin (林祐萱), a student in the post-baccalaureate Chinese medicine program, joined the outreach as part of her personal commitment to service. She assisted with sterilizing and preparing dental instruments, ensuring a smooth workflow for the medical team.

“I’m glad to be here. I don’t know how much Indonesians have to save to see a dentist, but this kind of free service is really important,” Lin said. She admired the dedication of local volunteers and felt that the experience strengthened her resolve to become a doctor. “Being able to help others with my skills is a wonderful thing,” she added.

Professional Care, Lasting Impact

Dr. Mery Merlinda, who has been part of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) since 2018, expressed her joy in serving the community. “Some patients come here because they truly can’t afford treatment. Free care means a lot to them. For us, it’s a way to give back,” she said.

Dr. Merlinda observed that tooth decay and loose teeth were the most common issues, and that oral health education remains lacking across all social groups in Indonesia. She highlighted the importance of brushing before bed and using dental floss, as brushing alone cannot clean between teeth thoroughly.

A Community Moving Toward Health

Through this outreach, it became clear that education is the foundation of lasting health. While treatment offers immediate relief, knowledge empowers individuals to care for themselves and their families every day.

The dental clinic in Sawah Besar was more than a day of treatment—it was a step toward a healthier future for the community. By learning new habits and understanding the reasons behind them, residents are now better equipped to protect their smiles and their well-being.

Written by Khusnul Khotimah

Source: 守護口腔與牙齒健康 健康從教育開始