#Japan #Tokyo #Dental Health #Oral Bacteria #periodontal medicine

The 16th Dental Press Seminar: A Deep Dive into Oral Bacteria's Impact on Overall Health

On October 28, 2025, the 16th Dental Press Seminar was held at Arkadia Ichigaya in Tokyo and streamed online, focusing on the crucial theme of "The Dangers of Ignorance: How Oral Bacteria Affect Overall Health." Sponsored by the Japan Private Dental University Association, the event aimed to shed light on the significant implications of oral health on overall wellbeing, which is becoming increasingly recognized as vital in the context of healthcare.

Keynote Address: Future of Dentistry in Relation to Oral Bacteria and Systemic Diseases

The seminar featured a keynote address by Professor Yukihiro Numabe from the Japan Dental University, who spoke about the connection between periodontal disease and systemic conditions. Following this, there was a panel discussion coordinated by Nobuyuki Utagawa, Executive Director of the association, with notable panelists including dental practitioners and researchers.

This seminar attracted approximately 70 participants from the media and the dental industry, aiming to communicate the role of dentistry in enhancing longevity and health. The discussions underscored a growing recognition of how oral health directly correlates to overall health outcomes.

Insights from Current Dental Practitioners

Vice President Takashi Sakurai highlighted the current challenges faced by dental professionals in Japan, including an aging workforce and regional shortages of practitioners. With about 75% of Japanese dentists graduating from private dental universities, these institutions play a crucial role in training future generations of dental professionals. Sakurai emphasized the growing need for dental care amid a rapidly aging population and the stark reality of a diminishing number of practicing dentists, particularly in rural areas.

The Keynote Presentation: Interplay Between Periodontal Disease and Systemic Health

Professor Numabe elaborated on alarming statistics, revealing that nearly half of the elderly population in Japan suffers from periodontal disease. He described it as an infectious disease of the gums that can lead to severe complications if left untreated. The presentation detailed how gum disease can lead to inflammation, which not only affects oral health but can propagate throughout the body, influencing various systemic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular issues.

Normal dental plaque harbors countless bacteria, and only a small portion of these pose threats to health. However, when the balance of oral microbiota is disrupted, systemic health deteriorates, leading to severe implications. The intertwined relationship between oral and systemic health was a pivotal topic of discussion, particularly the necessity of collaborative care between dental and medical sectors.

Panel Discussion: Perspectives from Dental Experts

The following panel discussion provided a platform for diverse insights from the dental industry. Participants emphasized the importance of integrative healthcare approaches, especially in managing elderly patients who often carry multiple systemic health conditions alongside oral diseases. Insights from practitioners reflected a consensus on the need for improved interprofessional collaboration to ensure comprehensive healthcare and the need for dental practitioners to engage closely with general healthcare providers. They discussed innovative approaches such as the concept of periodontal medicine, focusing on the prevention and treatment of diseases through an integrated approach.

Future Directions: Microbiome-targeted Therapies

Looking forward, new treatment methodologies like microbiome-targeted therapies were proposed, focusing on restoring the balance of oral and gut microbiomes. This represents a forward-thinking approach in dental medicine, combining traditional treatments with innovative strategies to maintain systemic health.

The importance of preventive care, as highlighted by seminar participants, cannot be overstated. As the understanding of the intricate links between oral and systemic health expands, it reinforces the argument for a more profound integration of dental and medical practices.

As we move forward, enhancing public awareness about oral health and its far-reaching effects can significantly improve health outcomes in society. Education, advocacy, and collaboration among various healthcare sectors will pave the way for a healthier future, reflecting the overarching theme of the 16th Dental Press Seminar.