日本歯科医師会 Japan Dental Association

The Journal of the Japan Dental Association

2026 VOL.79

NO.1 April

Author(s)

Tamaki HADA1), Maiko IWAKI2), Manabu KANAZAWA3)

Affiliation

1)Oral Devices and Materials, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Science Tokyo
2)Digital Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Science Tokyo
3)Gerodontology and Oral Rehabilitation, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Science Tokyo

Title

Clinical workflow for digital dentures and future prospects

Abstract

Recent advances in digital technology have enabled the application of digital workflows to complete denture fabrication. This paper outlines a clinical digital denture workflow starting with the digitization of the denture space by three-dimensional (3D) scanning existing dentures, focusing on the approach implemented at the authors’ university. The workflow includes 3D scanning of current dentures, fabrication of 3D-printed copy dentures for impression and jaw relation records, computer aided design (CAD)-based denture design, and final fabrication using either milling or 3D printing. In addition, the paper also covers emerging technologies such as assembly dentures and jetted dentures, and discusses the potential role of digital dentures in improving efficiency and quality of removable prosthodontic treatment in a super-aged society.

Keywords

Digital dentures, Complete dentures, CAD/CAM

Author(s)

Hatsuhiko MAEDA

Affiliation

Department of Oral Pathology/Forensic Odontology, School of Dentistry, Aichi Gakuin University

Title

Space dentistry: innovations in space-based dental medicine

Abstract

With the advancement of space development and the advent of the era of space tourism, dental care in space environments is becoming a realistic issue. Space-related factors, including microgravity, cosmic radiation, and closed environments, affect systemic physiology as well as jawbone metabolism, the oral environment, and immune responses, potentially altering the onset and progression of dental diseases. This paper outlines the concept and research background of space dentistry and discusses how knowledge obtained from the extreme environment of space may contribute to improving dental care on Earth.

Keywords

Space dentistry, Microgravity, Preventive dental care

Author(s)

Hidehiko SANO1), Chiharu KAWAMOTO2), Ryotaro YAGO3), Atsushi TOMOKIYO4)

Affiliation

1)Hokkaido University
2)Hokkaido University Hospital, Hokkaido University
3)Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University
4)Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University

Title

Tooth bleaching, adhesion, and universal-shade resin composites

Abstract

Since the beginning of the 21st century, advancements in adhesive dentistry originating in Japan, together with the integration of novel technologies, have significantly enhanced the ability to address patients’ aesthetic demands. Nevertheless, despite being a minimally invasive procedure and widely requested by patients, tooth bleaching presents clinical challenges, particularly with regard to the execution of adhesive restorative procedures immediately following bleaching. Recently developed universal-shade resin composites, characterized by their superior color-matching performance, may offer a novel clinical paradigm in which restorative treatment is undertaken prior to subsequent bleaching.

Keywords

Tooth bleaching, Adhesion, Universal-shade resin composite

NO.2 May

Author(s)

Kazuhiro HORI

Affiliation

Division of Comprehensive Prosthodontics,Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences

Title

Applications and fabrication of velopharyngeal prostheses

Abstract

Velopharyngeal insufficiency impairs speech and swallowing and is managed with either palatal lift or speech bulb prosthesis depending on the cause. Combined with dentures, these devices can provide immediate functional improvement. Assessment focuses on soft palate and pharyngeal movement, and each prosthesis must be designed and adjusted to the patient’s specific functional needs. Rehabilitation is performed alongside prosthetic treatment to enhance speech and swallowing. This article outlines the principles, evaluation, and fabrication of velopharyngeal prostheses.

Keywords

Velopharyngeal prosthesis, Palatal lift prosthesis, Speech bulb

Author(s)

Yuichiro NOIRI, Risako SATO, Maki SOTOZONO

Affiliation

Division of Cariology, Operative Dentistry and Endodontics Niigata Univ. Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science

Title

The Reiwa toothbrushing revolution:Pioneering healthy longevity through the development of oral care robots

Abstract

Toothbrushing habits and methods have long been established. In today's super-aged society, while many people still shy away from toothbrushing, digitalization has advanced remarkably, leading to the development of oral care robots (OCR).
A study involving healthy individuals using three types of brushes—OCR, a manual toothbrush, and an electric toothbrush—examined the removal rate of dental biofilm and the efficacy of the Matching Transformation (MA-T) System® used as an adjunct agent. The results suggest that robotic toothbrushes and MA-T are effective, raising expectations for their contributions to the health of individuals requiring care, persons with disabilities, and others.

Keywords

Toothbrushing, Oral care robots (OCR), Matching transformation (MA-T) system®

Author(s)

Masayasu MATSUNOBU

Affiliation

Matsunobu Dental Office

Title

Another look at gingival flap surgery

Abstract

Periodontal surgery should be considered if deep periodontal pockets remain after initial periodontal therapy. While periodontal surgery includes periodontal regenerative therapy, conventional gingival flap surgery is categorized into resective and tissue attachment therapies. However, surgical procedures classified as tissue attachment are currently not commonly used in actual clinical practice, so it is difficult to apply this categorization to clinical practice. Based on an understanding of resective and tissue attachment therapies, this paper takes another look at the procedures for gingival flap surgery.

Keywords

Periodontal surgery, Resective therapy, Tissue attachment therapy

NO.3 June

Author(s)

Shunsuke MINAKUCHI

Affiliation

Tokyo Medical and Dental University (Institute of Science Tokyo)

Title

Considerations for the ideal form of dental care in a super-aging society

Abstract

Japan’s declining birthrate and aging population are serious problems, and its people need to be aware that they must take responsibility for their own health. Oral health is crucial for this, and it is the responsibility of dental care to ensure that people understand this and to encourage behavioral change. Many challenges remain, including addressing oral hypofunction and root caries, and providing prosthetic treatment for older people requiring long-term care. As dental professionals, we must dedicate ourselves to protecting the health of the nation.

Keywords

Oral hypofunction, Root caries, Denture treatment for older people requiring long-term care

Author(s)

Yuko MOROZUMI, Soh SATO

Affiliation

Department of Periodontology, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry at Niigata

Title

Masticatory function and nutritional intake: the role of periodontal therapy

Abstract

In a super-aging society, extending healthy life expectancy is a critical challenge, and maintaining dental and oral health is fundamental to achieving this goal. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of permanent tooth loss, which diminishes masticatory ability and subsequently leads to a loss of dietary diversity and malnutrition. Therefore, improving masticatory ability through periodontal treatment is essential for ensuring adequate nutritional intake.

Keywords

Periodontal treatment, Masticatory ability, Healthy life expectancy

Author(s)

Takafumi OTANI

Affiliation

DENTAL OFFICE OTANI

Title

Clinical key points for successful ceramic overlay restorations

Abstract

Advances in adhesive dentistry and dental materials have enabled ceramic overlays as a conservative alternative to full crowns in posterior restorations. By preserving more tooth structure while providing cusp coverage, overlays can restore structural integrity and improve long-term tooth survival. This article outlines key clinical factors for successful outcomes, including case selection, tooth preparation design, enamel and dentin bonding strategies—particularly Immediate Dentin Sealing (IDS)—material selection, surface treatment, and cementation protocols. Emphasis is placed on achieving reliable adhesion and biomechanical stability. When these principles are properly applied, ceramic overlays represent a predictable, minimally invasive treatment option with favorable long-term prognosis.

Keywords

Adhesion, Ceramics, Overlay