Localization of Medical Technology in Developing Countries: The Thai Experience in the Oral Health Crisis - Tension Between Tradition and Modernity and Institutional Adaptation
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Abstract
Abstract: Thailand, a globally renowned medical tourism destination, has attracted many foreign patients with its high-quality and affordable dental services. However, oral diseases remain prevalent among its population. This study analyzes and elaborates on the oral health issues transitioning from traditional to modern dental techniques in Thailand's dental medical technology development from historical, technological, and epidemiological perspectives. To address these problems, it is necessary to tackle long-term unhealthy lifestyle habits. Thais' diets are high in sugar, acid, and spices; the outdated practice of betel nut chewing and unscientific teeth cleaning methods, coupled with Thailand's hot and humid environment, pose serious threats to the oral health of its people. Moreover, the imbalanced distribution of domestic medical resources further exacerbates the difficulties faced by those already suffering from dental diseases, making it hard to receive proper treatment. How Thailand can continue to break through and improve under existing reform policies to enhance the effectiveness of medical work further remains a topic for in-depth discussion. However, the developmental journey Thailand has undertaken thus far has demonstrated to other developing countries that it is indeed possible to establish a unique medical system that integrates regional culture with advanced technology.
Keywords: Thailand; Oral health; Dentistry; Dental caries
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