Today’s dentist reception includes an electronic massage chair and, bless them, a slipper vending machine – slippers being worn in the building. Punters heading for the chair receive a ‘freshly cleaned’ pair at the press of a button. And on your way out – used pairs are placed on the plate at the top of the machine where gravity drops them into slots where they are apparently, irradiated.

Its size suits the tiny reception area that is common in Tokyo dentists. However it makes me wonder whether its real function is the psychological reassurance that the rest of the building has such ‘high’ hygiene standards.