SOCIAL CONSTRUCTION OF DENTAL HEALTH AND ITS IMPLICATION FOR HEALTH PROMOTION STRATEGIES IN MAKASSAT CITY

Abstract

Objective: This study analyzes the social construction of dental health among communities in Makassar City and examines its implications for health promotion strategies. Methodology: A qualitative approach with a social phenomenological perspective was applied. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis related to dental health behavior and promotion activities. Findings: Dental health perceptions were constructed through family practices, cultural values, economic considerations, accessibility of health services, and previous experiences. Many communities still interpret dental health from a curative perspective, where dental services are accessed mainly after pain occurs. Practical and social implications: Health promotion strategies need to shift from information-based approaches toward empowerment-based interventions involving families, communities, schools, and digital communication platforms. Originality: This study emphasizes dental health as a socially constructed phenomenon and proposes a contextual promotion framework for urban communities.