TOKYO: A recent survey by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has revealed a record-low prevalence of cavities among children, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to improve oral health. The data, collected between April and June 2024, highlights the lowest cavity rates recorded since Japan began tracking children’s dental health in 1948.
According to the findings, the proportion of children with cavities in fiscal 2024 stands at 20.74% for kindergarteners, 32.89% for elementary school students, 26.50% for junior high school students, and 34.70% for high school students. These figures reflect a sustained decline in childhood dental caries, largely attributed to school-led oral health initiatives.
School Programs Drive Improvement in Oral Health
Japan has long prioritized school-based health programs as a core component of its national policies. In 2000, the country introduced its third national health policy, which included oral health as one of nine key targets for 2010. This policy aimed to:
- Reduce the DMFT index (decayed, missing, and filled teeth) to below 1 for 12-year-olds.
- Ensure that over 90% of schoolchildren use fluoride toothpaste.
- Facilitate professional tooth brushing instruction for at least 30% of students.
- By integrating oral hygiene education into the school curriculum and promoting after-lunch tooth brushing, Japan has cultivated a culture of preventive dental care among children.
Debate Over Effectiveness of School-Based Tooth Brushing
Despite these advancements, research suggests that additional factors beyond school-based programs contribute to the reduction in cavities. A 2019 study questioned the direct impact of supervised tooth brushing initiatives, arguing that variables such as socioeconomic status (SES), community environment, and pre-existing oral health trends play a more significant role in dental health outcomes.
Interestingly, the study found that schools with after-lunch tooth brushing programs had a higher mean DMFT index among children with existing cavities than those without such programs. This suggests that while school-based efforts are beneficial, they may not be the sole determinant of improved oral health.
Japan's Success Sets an Example for Global Oral Health Strategies
Japan’s achievements in reducing childhood cavities demonstrate the effectiveness of comprehensive, long-term public health strategies that involve schools, healthcare providers, and government support. While challenges remain in addressing disparities in dental health, Japan’s model offers valuable lessons for countries seeking to enhance oral hygiene among children through preventive education and policy-driven initiatives.
As the country continues to refine its approach, future studies may further explore how social and environmental factors interact with school programs to shape oral health trends.