Aso International: Leading Orthodontic Innovation

In recent years, the Japanese healthcare industry has faced criticism for lagging behind its Western counterparts, primarily due to regulatory hurdles, price competitiveness, and a lack of internationalization. However, since the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's economic reforms, Japanese companies have made significant strides in niche medical fields. A shining example of this progress is Aso International, a company that has become a leader in orthodontic solutions.

Operating in the highly specialized orthodontic sector, Aso International requires staff to hold national qualifications as dental technicians, ensuring high standards and limited competition. "As a dental technology company, we want to make the most of our more than 40 years of experience and technology," says Toshimasa Aso, president of Aso International.

Aso International collaborates with renowned companies such as Kuraray Noritake Dental Supply, leveraging unique materials and development capabilities to enhance its products. This collaboration embodies the Japanese kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement. "We work together with Japanese material manufacturers to create unique solutions that improve the quality of our products and services," explains Mr. Aso.

To help medical professionals keep pace with technological advancements, the company frequently organizes seminars. "These seminars are regularly attended by eminent professors who lecture on how to use the digital equipment developed by us," Mr. Aso notes. The company has been developing AI technology for orthodontic design, utilizing CT scans and intraoral scanners to align tooth roots and jawbones accurately.

With Japan’s aging population, dental health for the elderly is a growing concern. Aso International offers solutions tailored to this demographic. Reflecting on his own experience, the company president says: "Orthodontics has an important role in changing people's lives." He believes in the significance of preventative dentistry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthy teeth to avoid the need for dentures and other inserts.

Aso International’s commitment to innovation and quality is evident in their product offerings. "Our company's strength lies in the fusion of analogue technology of skilled dental technicians and digital technology in the manufacturing process," Mr. Aso explains. The company’s flagship products, such as SYMPHONY, are designed to provide high-quality treatment consistently.

Looking ahead, Aso International plans to expand its presence in the U.S. market, leveraging digital tools and a robust network of partner laboratories. "We envision a business model where we open a base in San Jose, which will act as a huge data center," says Mr. Aso. The company aims to increase its manufacturing workforce and expand its market reach.

Reflecting on the company's journey, Mr. Aso says: "I believe that by the time you return within a decade, Aso International will have grown to become the world’s number one name in orthodontics that you can trust." With a blend of traditional expertise and cutting-edge technology, Aso International is poised to continue its trajectory of innovation and global leadership in the orthodontic field.