Health Care

Question 1

According to an estimate in 2006, the Japanese market for dental implants is worth USD 180 million, and has grown by nearly 20% annually in recent years. Japan is the world’s third largest market after the United States and Germany. More and more Japanese dentists are learning implant techniques, and their patients are requesting increasingly durable, attractive replacements for lost teeth. Working with implants is an attractive way for Japanese dentists to boost revenues. Dental implants are not covered by the national dental insurance, which means that the treatment must be paid by the patient. Despite this, the Japanese market is estimated to be worth USD 317 million by 2010.

Dental care in Japan is covered by the health insurance system, but not all dental procedures are included in the benefits. The health insurance plan covers all surgical and conservative care and certain prosthetic treatments, whereas some other prosthetic treatments, as well as implants and orthodontics, are not included. Fees for these treatments are paid for by the patient directly to the practitioner.

Japan distinguishes itself for the high number of dentists, almost 98,000 according to the last official registered figures, creating a very competitive environment for the profession.

About 70% of Japanese dentists run a private practice, while others are employed by hospitals or dental clinics and practices. As regards lab technicians, many of them work for private laboratories, although some may also work in some of the larger private practices or in hospitals.

Dental Manpower (2006 figures)

Number of dentists | 97,198 |

Male | 78,254 |

Female | 18,944 |

Private practitioners | 58,956 (60.7%) |

Employed dentists at private practitioners | 23,368 (24%) |

Number of active dental technicians | 35,147 |

Number of active dental hygienists | 86,939 |

Source: Japan Dental Association

Dental care providers (2007 figures)

Dental Clinics  | 67,798 |

With...