Traditional oral health practices and sociocultural determinants influencing oral healthcare seeking among pre-elderly and older adults: A qualitative study at the Cilongok 1 community health center

Abstract

Many people in Cilongok District, especially in the area of ​​Puskesmas I Cilongok, still use traditional medicine and self-medication to treat dental and oral complaints. This is influenced by limited knowledge, socio-cultural factors, and belief in traditional medicine. This study used a qualitative method with a semi-structured interview technique with 7 respondents who were receiving health services at Puskesmas I Cilongok. The sampling technique was purposive sampling to obtain relevant data. The results showed that some people still use traditional ingredients such as siwak, pepper, papaya sap, ash, and gending as natural remedies, while others have switched to modern methods. Factors that influence this behavior include cultural and religious beliefs, personal experience, access to health workers, economic conditions, and the influence of social media. The Cilongok community still maintains traditional medicine that is influenced by socio-cultural factors and local beliefs. Culture-based health education is needed to improve understanding and behavior of more appropriate dental care and encourage trust in professional health services