August 7th, 2025
Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani,
The National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), partnered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to host a seminar titled “Medical Device Regulations and Practices in Dental Laboratories.” The seminar aimed to enhance the knowledge of dental laboratory operators across Thailand, equipping them to meet international production standards and strengthen consumer safety.
The seminar was honored by the presence of Dr. Sarawut Lerspalungsanti, Deputy Director of MTEC, who officiated the opening ceremony. The event drew over 170 participants, with approximately 130 attending on-site and more than 40 joining on-line. This robust turnout reflected the private sector’s strong interest in regulatory frameworks and production standards in dental practices, with private dental laboratory operators comprising the majority of attendees.
The session continued with a presentation by Dr. Sirasa Yodmongkol, researcher at MTEC, who introduced NSTDA’s “Consultancy Program” designed to help dental laboratories prepare for ISO 13485 certification and product registration. Ms. Peechaya Jirathumkitkul, Manager of the Food, Agriculture, and Health Industry at NSTDA’s Industrial Technology Assistance Program (ITAP), followed with an overview of ITAP’s mechanisms to strengthen the technological and innovative capabilities of Thai SMEs. ITAP offers funding support up to 50% for general projects and up to 80% for export-oriented initiatives. Specifically, dental laboratories pursuing ISO 13485 certification may receive up to 150,000 baht in funding to cover consultancy and testing expenses.
The afternoon session featured a panel discussion on “Current Limitations and Practices from the Perspective of Dental Laboratories,” offering firsthand insights from leading industry practitioners: Dr. Sanchai Chirachanchai, Managing Director of Inhouse Dental Art Co., Ltd.; Dr. Witawat Jongsatiantham, Manager of Quality Dental Lab Co., Ltd.; and Mr. Trairat Phakdeepoommin, President of the Dental Technologist Association of Thailand. Moderated by Dr. Sirasa Yodmongkol, the session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment joined by Mr. Piya Chinmaneewong, Director of the Medical Device Control Division, along with pharmacists Ms. Pojana Phuwanakitjakorn and Ms. Amornrat Lertmanoyan. The exchange provided participants with valuable guidance and practical insights into regulatory and operational challenges.
This seminar served as a vital platform for enhancing the knowledge of dental laboratory operators and underscored the collaboration efforts of MTEC-NSTDA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in advancing Thailand’s dental laboratory industry. The joint initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the sector and achieving tangible progress in elevating production standards to meet international benchmarks.
