Health Minister Reminds Public About Proper Toothbrushing Habits

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, has reminded the public about habits for maintaining healthy teeth and mouths. In his recent Instagram post, he highlighted common brushing mistakes that may contribute to tooth decay despite regular brushing.

Sadikin said people need a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, rather than covering their toothbrush with excessive paste. “We tend to use a lot of toothpaste because we want more foam. If there isn’t much foam, it feels as though we haven’t brushed our teeth properly. But that is actually wrong,” he said.

He reminded people to brush twice daily, including before bedtime when tiredness can make people skip brushing. According to Sadikin, leaving teeth unbrushed overnight allows bacteria in the mouth to remain active for prolonged periods.

Another common mistake, he said, is brushing too quickly, with some people stopping after only around fifteen seconds. Sadikin recommended brushing for two minutes and avoiding immediate rinsing afterward, allowing fluoride to remain longer on teeth.

He also encouraged Indonesians to have their teeth checked regularly, including through the government’s Free Health Check program. Regular dental checks can help identify cavities and other problems earlier, supporting treatment before conditions become more serious.

Sadikin’s reminders come as Indonesia continues strengthening preventive dental care and encouraging healthier habits from childhood through adulthood. According to the Health Ministry, dental examinations are priorities in the government’s Free Health Check program for schoolchildren.

Recent ministry data found that 41 percent of schoolchildren examined through the program had dental caries, highlighting prevention. To bring dental education and services closer, the Health Ministry has designated September as National Dental Health Month (BKGN).

Entering its seventeenth year, BKGN 2026 carries the theme “Strong Teeth, Healthy Smile, Great Indonesia,” with the subtheme “Check, Follow Up, Maintain Oral and Dental Health.” It reinforces healthy oral care habits across Indonesia.