The Tu Du Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City) has recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art Japanese-standard prenatal dental clinic, marking a significant medical collaboration between Vietnam and Japan. This clinic promises comprehensive oral health care for pregnant women and their babies, contributing to improved quality of life for mothers and children in Ho Chi Minh City.
Introduction to the Clinic
The newly opened prenatal dental clinic is a joint venture between Tu Du Hospital and Ho Chi Minh City Dental Hospital, with expert consultation from leading Japanese dental professionals, particularly Professor Nagato Natsume, Honorary Consul of Vietnam in Nagoya. This is Vietnam’s first prenatal dental clinic to implement a Japanese-standard oral health care program for expectant mothers.
Goals and Benefits of the Clinic
Mr. Masuo Ono, Japanese Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized that the clinic aims not only to protect the health of mothers and babies but also to combat tooth decay in children from newborns to 3 years old. Proper oral health care from the prenatal stage strengthens the immune system, prevents oral diseases, and reduces the risk of infectious diseases spread through the mouth, such as the flu or COVID-19.
International Collaboration and Potential
Dr. Nguyen Van Vinh Chau, Deputy Director of Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, stated that the inauguration ceremony demonstrates the successful collaboration between the two healthcare systems. Tu Du Hospital, with its 300,000 annual prenatal and childbirth cases, has a significant need and potential for oral health care for pregnant women. The Department of Health hopes the new clinic will become a trusted destination, significantly contributing to maternal and child health care in the city.
Impact of Oral Health on Fetal Development
International research has shown a link between oral health issues in expectant mothers and fetal development. Dr. Tran Ngoc Hai, Director of Tu Du Hospital, explains that these issues can affect the fetus through infection, increasing the risk of premature birth or miscarriage. Premature babies face more challenges in later development. Therefore, ensuring oral health for children from 0-3 years old is critical for developing healthy teeth and a strong immune system.
Clinic Operations Plan
The clinic will invest in 8-10 beds, flexible to meet the needs of pregnant women, to ensure quality and effectiveness in care. The clinic’s workforce includes Ho Chi Minh City-based doctors trained to Japanese standards. Initially, the clinic will focus on regular oral examinations for expectant mothers. After screening, necessary interventions will be performed to ensure the oral health of the babies. Tu Du Hospital hopes the clinic will operate effectively and become a trusted resource for oral health care for expectant mothers and children.
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