The Japanese Society of Dentistry, the central organization of dental academic societies in Japan, which comprises 25 specialized divisions and 20 certified divisions, annually awards the President’s Award, the highest honor of the society, to dentists who have made outstanding contributions to dental research, education, and local dental care. In the 3rd year of Reiwa (2021), Dr. Yajima Yasutomo Special Appointed Professor and Director of the Oral Implant Center of our university hospital, was awarded in the “Education” category.
The “Education” category, as per the Article 3, Section 2 of the criteria for the Japanese Society of Dentistry President’s Award, is a prestigious award given to individuals who have been engaged in dental education for over 30 years and have made remarkable achievements in its advancement.
After graduating from Tokyo Dental University in 1980, Dr. Yajima has been dedicated to the field of implant dentistry at the same university. He has been actively engaged in education and research.
Viewing implant dentistry as a comprehensive interdisciplinary field, he established the Oral Implant Department at Tokyo Dental University Chiba Hospital in 2005. He became the first professor of the department and later in 2007, he was promoted to head the Oral Implant Research Laboratory. In 2009, he was elevated to the position of the head of the Oral Implant Course.
During this period, dental implant education was limited to a few hours of lectures at most universities due to implants not being a part of the national exam. However, Dr. Yajima conducted a unique practical training with a substantial 48 hours of lectures and hands-on training annually, which garnered media attention. He is truly the pioneer who established the fundamental principles of implant dentistry education in Japan.
Furthermore, Dr. Yajima actively engaged in educating dental practitioners to prevent implant treatment accidents. He authored numerous papers and books on implant complications, delivered educational presentations at various dental conferences, and delivered over 100 implant-related lectures at prefectural dental associations. His contributions have greatly enhanced the knowledge of dental practitioners and have significantly contributed to lifelong education in general dentistry.
Within the Japanese Society of Dentistry, he has served as a council member, chairman of the council, and member of various committees, contributing to the sound operation of the society.
This summarizes the achievements that led to his award.
The award ceremony took place at the Japanese Society of Dentistry Council Meeting on February 18th. Along with Dr. Yajima, five other recipients were awarded.
We express our heartfelt respect for these honorable awards and also look forward to Dr. Yajima’s continued contributions to the development of our university.
Authored by: Professor Nobuo Yoshinari Department of Conservative Dentistry Matsumoto Dental University
Source: Matsumoto Dental University “CampusToday No.460”
