News Feature European Dental Experts in Japan United by a passion for dentistry What goes into creating the dental materials professionals rely on every day? In October 2026, 21 dentists and dental technicians from 11 European countries travelled to Japan to find out. Their five-day journey offered a unique opportunity to explore the science, precision and people behind Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc. But above all, it was about connecting minds, sharing expertise and inspiring innovation through a mutual passion for dentistry. Under the theme “Let's discover the roots of Kuraray Noritake Dental”, the group visited three key locations: the Niigata production facility, Kuraray's global headquarters in Tokyo and the Miyoshi production facility near Nagoya. Three locations. Many insights. In Niigata, where Kuraray Noritake Dental's chairside materials are produced, participants had the opportunity to see the manufacturing processes up close and meet the research and development teams. A presentation and demonstration of CLEARFIL MAJESTY™ ES Flow Universal provided further insight into the science behind our restorative materials. The visit continued at Kuraray's headquarters in Tokyo, where the group exchanged knowledge and experiences with the company's development and marketing teams. The final destination was the Miyoshi facility, home to the production of ceramic materials. Here, participants explored the manufacturing processes behind our ceramic solutions and attended a demonstration of CERABIEN™ MiLai. More than a factory visit Throughout the week, the programme encouraged a two-way exchange of knowledge. European clinicians and dental technicians shared their practical experiences, presented clinical and laboratory cases, and discussed their needs and expectations directly with Japanese researchers and product developers. For many participants, these conversations were among the most valuable aspects of the trip. Dr Lawrence Yosy particularly appreciated the opportunity for dialogue: “I really appreciate that R&D members took their time to listen to us and considering our recommendations and wishes.” The factory visits also offered a new perspective on the dedication and attention to detail involved in developing and producing dental materials. As dental technician Andreas Piorreck reflected: “As a user and as an instructor for KND materials, it was very impressive to see how much science, knowledge and expertise go into developing these materials. Keep up the good work!” Connecting people, cultures and expertise Beyond the professional programme, the journey offered opportunities to experience Japanese culture, from a traditional sake brewery visit in Niigata to exploring Tokyo and Nagoya. Just as importantly, it brought together dental professionals from across Europe, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from one another and build new relationships. For dental technician Rebeka Sobolewska, this connection was particularly meaningful: “Such meetings are very important, very inspiring and definitely creates more bond with the people and the brand.” A shared commitment to excellence The visit reinforced something that cannot always be communicated through product information alone: behind every material are people whose expertise, dedication and attention to detail contribute to its development. Throughout the journey, the Japanese Kuraray Noritake Dental teams welcomed their European guests with genuine warmth, openness and curiosity. Their interest went far beyond presenting products and manufacturing processes. They were equally eager to listen, understand how their materials perform in everyday clinical and laboratory practice, and hear what dental professionals need from future innovations. For Kuraray Noritake Dental, these conversations are invaluable. By bringing together the expertise of researchers and developers with the hands-on experience of dental professionals, we can continue to develop solutions that address real-world challenges and help make dentistry even better. Five days, three locations and countless conversations: a journey that brought the people behind the materials closer to the professionals who use them, united by a shared passion for dentistry. Nov 6, 2026 dental materials Kuraray Noritake Dental Japan CERABIEN MiLai dental professionals clearfil majesty es flow universal European dental experts dental innovation Niigata Tokyo Miyoshi Subscribe to our Newsletter Join thousands of dental professionals and receive free advice that can help you and your career. We will not spam or share your e-mail.
United by a passion for dentistry What goes into creating the dental materials professionals rely on every day? In October 2026, 21 dentists and dental technicians from 11 European countries travelled to Japan to find out. Their five-day journey offered a unique opportunity to explore the science, precision and people behind Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc. But above all, it was about connecting minds, sharing expertise and inspiring innovation through a mutual passion for dentistry. Under the theme “Let's discover the roots of Kuraray Noritake Dental”, the group visited three key locations: the Niigata production facility, Kuraray's global headquarters in Tokyo and the Miyoshi production facility near Nagoya. Three locations. Many insights. In Niigata, where Kuraray Noritake Dental's chairside materials are produced, participants had the opportunity to see the manufacturing processes up close and meet the research and development teams. A presentation and demonstration of CLEARFIL MAJESTY™ ES Flow Universal provided further insight into the science behind our restorative materials. The visit continued at Kuraray's headquarters in Tokyo, where the group exchanged knowledge and experiences with the company's development and marketing teams. The final destination was the Miyoshi facility, home to the production of ceramic materials. Here, participants explored the manufacturing processes behind our ceramic solutions and attended a demonstration of CERABIEN™ MiLai. More than a factory visit Throughout the week, the programme encouraged a two-way exchange of knowledge. European clinicians and dental technicians shared their practical experiences, presented clinical and laboratory cases, and discussed their needs and expectations directly with Japanese researchers and product developers. For many participants, these conversations were among the most valuable aspects of the trip. Dr Lawrence Yosy particularly appreciated the opportunity for dialogue: “I really appreciate that R&D members took their time to listen to us and considering our recommendations and wishes.” The factory visits also offered a new perspective on the dedication and attention to detail involved in developing and producing dental materials. As dental technician Andreas Piorreck reflected: “As a user and as an instructor for KND materials, it was very impressive to see how much science, knowledge and expertise go into developing these materials. Keep up the good work!” Connecting people, cultures and expertise Beyond the professional programme, the journey offered opportunities to experience Japanese culture, from a traditional sake brewery visit in Niigata to exploring Tokyo and Nagoya. Just as importantly, it brought together dental professionals from across Europe, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from one another and build new relationships. For dental technician Rebeka Sobolewska, this connection was particularly meaningful: “Such meetings are very important, very inspiring and definitely creates more bond with the people and the brand.” A shared commitment to excellence The visit reinforced something that cannot always be communicated through product information alone: behind every material are people whose expertise, dedication and attention to detail contribute to its development. Throughout the journey, the Japanese Kuraray Noritake Dental teams welcomed their European guests with genuine warmth, openness and curiosity. Their interest went far beyond presenting products and manufacturing processes. They were equally eager to listen, understand how their materials perform in everyday clinical and laboratory practice, and hear what dental professionals need from future innovations. For Kuraray Noritake Dental, these conversations are invaluable. By bringing together the expertise of researchers and developers with the hands-on experience of dental professionals, we can continue to develop solutions that address real-world challenges and help make dentistry even better. Five days, three locations and countless conversations: a journey that brought the people behind the materials closer to the professionals who use them, united by a shared passion for dentistry.