USU PR - The dedication team from the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) introduced a herbal mouthwash product from red ginger. Decoction of red ginger has been studied in dentistry and proven to help prevent and reduce gum inflammation and plaque formation.

The dedication team led by Dr. drg. Ervina Sofyanti, Sp.Ort (K) said her team had conducted counseling and outreach to mothers in Telagah Village, Sei Bingai District, Langkat, regarding maintaining oral and dental health during the Covid-19 pandemic, it was not enough just to brush teeth.

"The use of mouthwash is also considered effective as a supporting effort to prevent dental and oral diseases," she said.

She explained that antimicrobial mouthwash is safe and effective, when used after brushing teeth. Both methods are important for reducing plaque and gingivitis, which are the causes of cavities (caries) and bleeding gums (gingivitis and periodontitis).

"The development of herbs in maintaining health during the pandemic has become a trend because it is considered quite effective and economical. Socialization activities emphasize the importance of the role of mothers in maintaining dental and oral health, including families," she said.

In addition to providing counseling on how to maintain dental and oral health during times such as the covid-19 pandemic, together with service members, Dr. drg. Pitu Wulandari, S.Psi., Sp.Perio (K) and drg. Indri Lubis, MDSc and a team of students from the dental profession study program and orthodontic specialist FKG also presented material on diseases and disorders of the oral cavity which included caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, halitosis, and malocclusion.

The series of events while still adhering to health protocols began with counseling followed by socialization of red ginger mouthwash. PKK (Family Welfare Development) women were also trained to make red ginger decoction mouthwash.

This service is carried out as part of USU's vision and mission efforts in the downstreaming of USU FKG research results that are useful for the community. This activity is part of a series of activities from the USU Community Service Institution Assisted Village Program, chaired by Dr. rer. Medic., dr. M. Ichwan, M.Sc, Sp.KKLP. The success of this program is due to the support of posyandu cadres and the PKK women group as the driving team.(©ULC)

Author: Bambang Riyanto - Humas

Interviewee: - - -

Photographer: Humas - Humas