Japan’s Dental Arts Technology can be traced all the way back to the Yayoi Period. (800BC-300AD) During this period artisans sculpted artificial teeth carved out of pagodite stone. During the Heian Period (800AD-1200AD), dentures masterly carved out of boxwood were made by Buddhist figurine sculptors. These types of dentures, which were considered luxury items during the Heian Period, but became available to common people during the Edo Period. (1603AD-1867AD) During the Meiji Period (1868AD-1912AD), western dental technology and techniques were introduced to Japan. In Japan, crowns and dentures are categorized as artificial organs. Only dentists and certified dental technicians are allowed to participate in dental arts. To be able to become a dental technician one has to study for at least two years at a government certified institute and then pass a rigorous national exam. The course of study and exam covers many areas including Dental Anatomy, Dental Technology of Denture, Dental Restoration Technology, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Jaw Oral Cavity System, Dental Science and Engineering, and Dental Practice Law.