My parents are originally German/Chinese. We did some travel over the years… now I took my RDA money to travel during my time in the Vanderbilt’s Study Abroad program. I tried to get some shadowing in Kyoto in with a local dental practice but language barriers and regulations made that impossible (very strict). Japan seems to focus more on affordable, easily accessible regular cleanings, and conservative care (less cosmetics). There is a government run dental program covering most people (no cosmetics). I did not know that in the Edo-period Japan (1603–1868), blackened teeth, were a significant cultural practice for married women. If you ever see some old paintings… take a closer look. Wondering a bit about dental health back in those days…I heart it was bad due to rice starch.
I am now in Rome interning at a local Nutrition Counseling practice. Milan is next… then go back home, apply for Dental School, and work this summer. Italians pay for dental care mostly out of pocket, there are government managed insurance programs for children.