Toshio Kitamura

Title: **Innovative Contributions of Toshio Kitamura in Dental Technology**

Introduction

Toshio Kitamura, an accomplished inventor based in Kyoto, Japan, has made significant strides in the realm of dental technology. With a remarkable portfolio of 14 patents, his innovative contributions aim to enhance the quality and efficacy of dental prosthetics.

Latest Patents

One of Kitamura's latest innovations is a dental zirconia blank featuring a multilayer structure that varies in the content of yttria. This advanced dental zirconia blank is designed to have high permeability, closely mimic the color tone of natural teeth, and exhibit sufficient strength for enduring use in oral cavities. The invention comprises a first layer made of high permeability ceramic containing 91.6 to 96.5 mol % of zirconium oxide and 3.5 to 8.4 mol % of yttrium oxide. The second layer consists of low permeability ceramic with 95.6 to 98.5 mol % of zirconium oxide and 1.5 to 4.4 mol % of yttrium oxide. Notably, the yttrium oxide content in the low permeability layer is lower than that in the high permeability layer by 0.5 to 5.4 mol %. Furthermore, the first layer is strategically positioned at one end in the layering direction to optimize its properties.

Another significant patent is centered around a post-curing method after optical shaping facilitated by a 3D printer. This innovative manufacturing method outlines a detailed process involving the acquisition of scan data from a patient's oral cavity, the creation of shape data for dental purposes, and the production of a shaped body based on the generated data. The method also includes steps to cover the shaped body with film and curing the body while ensuring its close contact with the model, resulting in an effective and precise prosthetic apparatus.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Kitamura has contributed his expertise to notable companies such as Shofu Inc. and Kabushikikaisha Shofu. His work in these institutions has allowed him to innovate and refine dental materials, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Collaborations

Kitamura has collaborated with talented coworkers, including Rieko Aiba and Masanori Goto. Their collective efforts have enhanced the development of groundbreaking dental technologies and techniques.

Conclusion

Toshio Kitamura's relentless pursuit of innovation in dental technology positions him as a noteworthy figure in the field. His patents not only display his ingenuity but also exhibit a profound impact on the quality of dental prosthetics. As the industry continues to evolve, Kitamura's contributions are likely to inspire future advancements in dental care.