Div. of Pediatric Dentistry

Professor　 HAYASAKI Haruaki

hayasaki@dent.niigata-u.ac.jp

Our Education

Pediatric Dentistry
Special Needs Dentistry

Our Research

There has recently been a growing focus on frailty among the elderly, leading to widespread initiatives in society to uphold and enhance oral function. There is a concern that not attaining a certain level of oral function in childhood may lead to insufficient oral function in adulthood, potentially contributing to oral frailty in old age. Our ongoing research efforts are directed at establishing growth and development indicators for oral function and applying them to diagnose and treat developmental disorders of oral function in children with insufficient oral function development.
A. Oral Function in Children
We comprehensively study children’s oral function using advanced tools such as the VICON 3D motion analyzer, ultra-high-speed 3D surface morphography, stereo vision cameras, and diverse biomedical measurement systems. Our focus includes:
1. Quantitative analysis of tool movements during feeding from infancy
2. Developmental changes in coordinated movements of the oral cavity and body during feeding
3. Pressure formation pattern of the oral cavity linked with lip closure
4. Relationship between feeding and breathing
5. Relationship between facial and oral motor function and soft tissue morphology
B. Toothbrushing
Special attention is required for children and individuals with disabilities that affect oral health. Toothbrushing is the most common daily health maintenance activity practiced by a majority of the population. However, the effectiveness of toothbrushing quality remains unclear. Our ongoing research is dedicated to enhancing toothbrushing methods and toothbrush quality.
C. Oral Health and Habits of Abused Children
In recent years, the development of caries has markedly decreased as society’s knowledge and interest in oral hygiene has improved. However, there is a growing need for oral health support for individuals facing challenges in maintaining oral hygiene for various reasons. We are collaborating with child guidance centers and facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Niigata Prefecture, delving into the relationship between the oral environment and life background factors such as foster care environments and life support conditions. Our aim in this endeavor is to establish oral health support programs for children requiring unique considerations.
G. Disorders in Tooth Formation
Several factors influence the quantity, shape, and quality of teeth. However, congenitally defective teeth, characterized by a reduced number of teeth from birth, can impact oral growth and development. This condition demands careful consideration in the continual oral care of children from an early age. We are partnering with research institutes to undertake epidemiological studies on congenitally absent teeth and explore the development of therapeutic agents.

Clinical Fields

Our clinic specializes in comprehensive oral healthcare for children and individuals with disabilities. We offer consultations on various health concerns, including dental caries, periodontal disease, trauma, tooth eruption, and oral functions such as eating and speaking. Additionally, we provide treatment and preventive care for oral diseases. As a tertiary care medical institution, we collaborate closely with specialized departments within the hospital and administer dental treatments under general anesthesia in a setting tailored to the patient’s needs. Our goal is to establish a strong foundation for oral health in childhood, empowering patients to “eat well and speak happily” throughout their lives.

Our Website

https://www.dent.niigata-u.ac.jp/pedo/pedo.html

Our Citizenship

Niigata City Dental Health Program (dental examinations for infants and toddlers, workshops)
Dental examinations for children temporarily in protective care at child guidance centers
Dental care support for individuals in facilities for persons with disabilities

Research Figures

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• Departments/Faculty
  • Div. of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
  • Div. of Biomimetics
  • Div. of Preventive Dentistry
  • Div. of Cariology Operative Dentistry and Endodontics
  • Div. of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Div. of Bio-Prosthdontics
  • Div. of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Div. of Dental Clinical Education
  • Div. of Oral Anatomy
  • Div. of Oral Physiology
  • Div. of Oral Biochemistry
  • Div. of Periodontology
  • Div. of Orthodontics
  • Div. of Dysphagia Rehabilitation
  • Div. of Anatomy and Cell Biology of the Hard Tissue
  • Div. of Oral Pathology
  • Div. of Dental Pharmacology
  • Div. of Comprehensive Prosthodontics
  • Div. of Reconstructive Surgery for Oral and Maxillofacial Region
  • Div. of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
  • Div. of Dental Anesthesiology
  • Department of Oral Health and Welfare
  • Center for Advanced Oral Science
  • Div. of Dental Clinical Education
    General Dentistry and Clinical Education Unit
  • Oral Implant and Temporomandibular Joint Clinic