Oral and Dental Health Week: Promoting Awareness and Education in Japan

Japan: In an effort to disseminate accurate knowledge about dental and oral health, promote preventive habits for dental diseases, and ensure early detection and treatment, Oral and Dental Health Week is being observed in Japan from June 4-10. The campaign aims to contribute to the overall maintenance and enhancement of the nation’s health. This important initiative is spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the Japan Dental Association, and the Japan School Dental Association.

Evolution of Dental Health Awareness in Japan

The roots of Oral and Dental Health Week can be traced back to the Japan Dental Association’s implementation of “Caries Prevention Day” on June 4th, between 1928 and 1938. Over the years, the event went through various names such as “Tooth Conservation Day” (1939-1941), “Public Health Campaign for Cavities” (1942), and “Oral Hygiene Week” (1949). It was renamed as “Oral Hygiene Emphasis Campaign” (1952) before eventually becoming known as “Oral and Dental Health Week” in 2013.

To support this initiative, the Japan Dental Association collaborates with the Japan Toothbrush Industrial Association to create and distribute informative posters. Educational advertisements are also published in newspapers, dental clinics display posters, symposiums are organized, and television commercials are aired.

Nationwide Educational Events

Throughout the country, prefectural dental associations and municipal dental associations conduct a wide range of educational events during Oral and Dental Health Week. These events showcase creativity and include activities such as quizzes, shows, dances, oral cancer screenings, guidance on dietary habits and much more.

Parents with young children and childcare professionals are encouraged to take advantage of Oral and Dental Health Week to disseminate proper preventive methods for dental diseases and impart correct knowledge about dental and oral health. By actively promoting awareness and education, they play a crucial role in contributing to Japan’s overall health and well-being.

Dental Health Lecture at Library 

To support these efforts, various events and lectures are being organized. One such event is the Dental Health Lecture titled “The Importance of a Comfortable Oral Environment,” scheduled for June 3rd at the Imari City Library. Professor Jun Aida from the Graduate School of Tokyo Medical and Dental University will discuss the relationship between oral and overall health, as well as the necessary knowledge and efforts to maintain oral health. Admission is free for attendees.

Cavity Prevention Class with Hippo

Another notable event will take place at the Himeji Municipal Zoo on June 2nd, where visitors can witness the teeth cleaning of a hippo named “Kiboko” as part of the “Cavity Prevention Class.” This event, starting at 10AM, offers an opportunity to learn about cavity prevention and extends the lifespan of teeth. Kiboko, a 40-year-old female hippo, will have her teeth cleaned, and attendees can gain insights into proper dental care. The admission fees for the event are as follows: Adults will be charged 210 yen, while junior high school students and children below that age can enter at a discounted rate of 30 yen. Children under the age of 4 can attend the event for free.