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Pediatric Dentistry (Depatrment of Pediatric Dentistry)

Pediatric Dentistry
(Depatrment of Pediatric Dentistry)

 The Department of Pediatric Dentistry was founded in 1976 and originated from the Clinical Room for Pediatric Dentistry, which was established in 1964. Dr. Shizuo SOBUE was designated as the professor of the department. In 2000, the department changed to become one of the three components in the Division of Oral Infections and Diseases of Osaka University Graduate School of Dentsitry, based on a policy that emphasizes postgraduate study. Dr. Takashi OOSHIMA was designated as the professor in 2002 and Dr. Kazuhiko NAKANO was designated as the professor in 2014. Presently, there are 4 faculty members, and others, each of whom eagerly participate in clinical treatments, as well as research and education.

ProfessorKazuhiko NAKANO
Associate ProfessorRena OKAWA
Assistant ProfessorMasatoshi OTSUGU
Assistant ProfessorYuko OGAYA

■ Research topics

1. Clinical investigations of dental caries and periodontal diseases in children and adolescents

 In order to develop appropriate treatment and preventive approaches, analyses of cases of dental caries and periodontal diseases are performed. In addition, the association of oral bacteria with dental caries and periodontitis harbored in children and adolescents are investigated.

2. Molecular biological analyses of cariogenic bacteria for developing approaches for prevention of dental caries

 Molecular biological analyses of cariogenic bacteria are performed by focusing on cell surface protein antigens to specify the mechanism of dental caries development. In addition, we attempt to find foods with dental caries prevention properties.

3. Specification the mechanisms of systemic diseases with involvement of oral bacteria

 Molecular and cellular biological analyses are performed to specify the mechanisms of systemic diseases with oral bacteria involvement in collaboration with investigators performing research in cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and gastroenterological fields.

4. Development of novel approaches for treatment of patients in pediatric dental clinic

 We attempt to develop novel approaches to solve problems encountered in uncommon cases with extremely low incidence based on accumulation of evidence in related cases.

5. Investigation of transmission of oral bacteria

 Transmission of oral bacteria related to dental caries and periodontal diseases from mothers to their children is investigated using molecular biological and molecular epidemiological approaches. In addition, bacterial transmission between pets and owners is also examined.

6. Basic and clinical investigations regarding improvement of oral conditions in patients with skeletal disorders

 We investigate problems occurring in the oral cavity of patients with various skeletal disorders using animal models of related diseases. In addition, large-scale studies of patients coming to our clinic are performed to develop better clinical approaches.

Interaction of cariogenic bacteria with blood
components (SEM image)
Mandible of hypophosphatasia model mouse
(3D X-ray micro-CT image)