The Effectiveness of Using Apples and Papayas in Reducing the Debris Index Score in Children with Mild Mental Retardation

Abstract

One of the supporting factors causing dental caries is debris or leftover food around the teeth. The fiber and water content of apples can stimulate the speed of salivary secretion and neutralize acidic substances in the mouth and also have an effect on reducing the debris index. Consumption of fresh fruit rich in vitamins and minerals and water can encourage self-cleaning of the teeth, papaya is a plant source of vitamins, minerals and water. The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of using apples and papayas in reducing the debris index score in mildly mentally retarded children at SLBN 2 Jambi City. The type of research used in this study was quasi-experimental while the research design used was two group pre-test and post-test debris index observed twice, namely before treatment and after treatment with a total sample of 32 people with a total sampling technique. Based on the results of the study there was a significant difference in the average debris index between before and after chewing apples p value 0.000 and papayas p value 0.000. There is a significant difference in the average difference in debris index reduction between the use of apples compared to papayas with a p value of 0.000. Keywords: Apple, papayas, debris indeks, mildly mentally retarded