European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Mentally retarded children experience higher dental and oral health
problems compared to normal children due their ability to carry out independent
activities, especially in dental and oral health maintenance behaviours. The right
behaviour change strategy is to provide dental health education using learning
methods and media tailored to the needs of mentally retarded children. Model of the
3D Gosgi modification puzzle was made specifically for learning carried out by
mentally retarded children in group and been assisted by teachers. Aims: Find effect
of application media puzzle modified 3D Gosgi as an effort to improve the skills of
brushing teeth for mentally retarded children. Research design is quasy experimental
and research location at Special Need School at Semarang, Indonesia. The subjects
were 30 mentally retarded children divided into two groups, intervention group was
given education with a modified 3D puzzle model for 5 d and control group with video
media and brushing teeth demonstrations. Measurement of index debris and tooth
brushing skills of mentally retarded children were carried out before and after
intervention. Statistical analysis used is Wilcoxon and Mann Whitney test. Puzzle
modified 3D gosgi are effective to decrease debris index (p < 0.001) and improve tooth
brushing skill (p < 0.001) compared to group with video and demonstration.
Application of puzzle modification 3D Gosgi by teacher for effective in improving the
brushing skills of mentally retarded children.