Author(s): Sunil Suresh
During the Japanese colonial period (1895–1945), Taiwan underwent significant transformations in public health and education. Among these developments was the introduction of oral health care initiatives, particularly in schools. This study examines the policies, implementation, and impact of oral health care activities for high school students in Taipei City. Using historical records, government reports, and medical literature from the time, we analyze the colonial administration’s approach to dental hygiene, including school-based dental check-ups, hygiene education, and treatment programs. The findings reveal that oral health care was closely tied to Japan’s broader public health strategies, which aimed to improve the well-being of students while also reinforcing colonial authority. The study also highlights the long-term effects of these early initiatives on modern dental care practices in Taiwan.
