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Dental hygienist education in a super-aging society : development of gerodontology education in Japan

  • Journal of Korean society of Dental Hygiene
  • Abbr : J Korean Soc Dent Hyg
  • 2025, 25(6), pp.465~471
  • DOI : 10.13065/jksdh.2025.25.6.1
  • Publisher : Korean Society of Dental Hygiene
  • Research Area : Medicine and Pharmacy > Dentistry
  • Received : December 11, 2025
  • Accepted : December 17, 2025
  • Published : December 30, 2025

Shin Yu-Jeong 1

1Department of Oral Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Meikai University/Department of Pediatric Dentistry・Special Needs Dentistry, Institute of Science Tokyo

Accredited

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Japan’s rapid transition into a super-aging society has reshaped oral health needs and dental hygiene education. This study aims to examine the evolution of Japan’s gerodontology and dental hygiene education within the context of longterm care reforms and expanding professional roles. Methods: A literature-based review was conducted by synthesizing national policies, legal regulations, and educational guidelines to analyze structural changes in gerodontology education. Results: Policy reforms, particularly the establishment and revision of the long-term care Insurance system accelerated. Educational reforms followed these systemic changes, culminating in the 2022 Educational Principles of Dental Hygienist in Gerodontology. However, persistent challenges remain, including limited clinical training sites, shortages of qualified instructors, inconsistencies in practicum content, and insufficient interprofessional education. Conclusions: Japan’s experience demonstrate the importance of aligning gerodontology education. These findings suggest that Korea would benefit from standardized, competency-based gerodontology curriculum to better prepare practitioner for an aging society.

Citation status

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