Sumitomo Riko Corporation, headquartered in Nakamura Ward, Nagoya City, with Kazushi Shimizu as President and CEO, has announced the expanded distribution of the Oramo-bf oral function monitor through Yoshida Corporation, a company specializing in the development, sales, and importation of dental medical equipment, materials, and computers. Yoshida Corporation, located in Taito Ward, Tokyo, and headed by President Kazutake Yamanaka, will be instrumental in the distribution of Oramo-bf.
Oramo-bf is Sumitomo Riko's first venture into dental medical devices in Japan, and is designed to measure occlusal force (bite force). This product has been adopted by university research institutions and dental clinics, and is unique in that it is covered by health insurance when used for occlusal force testing, a key indicator of oral function decline. The user-friendly design allows easy and quick measurement of occlusal force by simply placing the sensor in the patient's mouth and having them bite down. Its compact design also makes it suitable for home visits.
The development of Oramo-bf utilized Sumitomo Riko's core competencies in polymer material technology and comprehensive evaluation technology. The product was realized through collaborative research with Professor Hirohiko Hirano of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, an expert in oral and maxillofacial surgery and research. Launched in July 2022, approximately 600 units have been sold to date.
In Japan, maintaining oral function is becoming increasingly important, especially with the introduction of dental health checks for the elderly in 2014 and the proposed "National Dental Health Examination" system, which will require annual dental check-ups for citizens. As the population ages, there is growing concern about the decline in oral functions such as occlusal strength, leading to avoidance of fibrous and meaty foods and potential risks of obesity and reduced mobility. Ensuring dental health is considered essential to prolonging healthy life expectancy. The concept of "oral frailty" promoted by the Japan Dental Association is gaining attention, and as research on oral function and health progresses, demand for Oramo-bf is expected to increase.
The Sumitomo Riko Group, through its "2029 Sumitomo Riko Group Vision," aims to contribute to a "green and comfortable society" in which nature, urban spaces, and people are connected. By promoting the widespread use of Oramo-bf and making occlusal force measurement more accessible, the company hopes to improve the quality of life for everyone, not just the elderly, and contribute to a healthier, longer-lived society through effective treatment and advice from dental professionals.
For inquiries regarding this product, please contact Yoshida Corporation for sales information and Sumitomo Riko Corporation for technical and quality information.
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