ABSTRACT
Objectives: This study explored Indonesian patients' views on preventive oral healthcare to inform public health strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from February 6–28, 2023, with 12,781 out of 14,114 participants completing it. The survey assessed sociodemographic data, oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors from parents' perspectives. Results: it showed that many seek dental care only for symptoms, with 62.62% of parents never taking their children to the dentist and 34.23% doing so only when in pain. Although 68.67% used fluoride toothpaste, preventive practices remained low. Socioeconomic factors like education and income significantly influenced dental habits, with higher education linked to better practices. Conclusion: The study highlights the urgent need to improve public awareness and access to preventive oral healthcare. It calls for targeted educational efforts and accessible services, offering insights for policymakers and health professionals to promote preventive care and regular dental visits across Indonesia.
