Operation Dental Protection: A Story from MKAB

Story by Spc. Joshua Maxie

22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

“Dentistry is important to have in the Army, especially on rotational deployments, because everyone has teeth,” said Capt. Lee Brethower, a general dentist with 673rd Dental Company Area Support. “At any given time, whether you are at your duty station or on deployment, there is always a chance that someone will have tooth problems.”

Brethower is part of a team of dental professionals currently working at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base in Romania. This team is responsible for maintaining the dental health of rotational forces who operate in and around the base.

The legacy of U.S. Army Dentistry is a testament to the commitment to excellence displayed by its dental professionals. The Army’s first dental corps was established during World War I by Douglas Eads Foster, a pioneer in the field. This rich history culminated in the United States Dental Command’s (DENCOM) activation on November 1, 1993, as a vital part of the United States Army Medical Command (MEDCOM). They aim to deliver global dental services that enable sustained readiness for the total force. DENCOM, headquartered at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, exemplifies its central role in the Army’s medical operations.

“Having dental services on deployment and rotations in different locations is vital because, at any given point, something can happen to your mouth,” said Sgt. James Gonzalez, the non-commissioned officer in charge of the 673rd Dental Company Area Support. “I have seen people fall downstairs or trip running and end up with a broken tooth that can cause a lot of pain. So just having the ability to have us here, we can keep them mission-ready.”

The U.S. Army offers two paths for those interested in dentistry: dental specialist or general dentist. These roles allow those interested in dentistry to serve their country and provide a platform for significant professional growth and advancement, offering a unique and fulfilling career opportunity.

Those who join as dental specialists undergo ten weeks of Basic Combat Training, followed by eight weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. During AIT, they learn skills to assist Army dentists in examining and treatment services. Training includes taking dental impressions and x-rays, preparing for dental procedures, and managing dental offices and patient records.

“I chose to be a dental specialist because I wanted to be in the medical field,” said Spc. Yadir Blas, dental specialist assigned to the 673rd Dental Company Area Support. “Being a dental specialist gave me skills in taking care of myself while taking care of others.”

There are numerous paths to become an Army dentist. Those interested can find more information at https://recruiting.army.mil/MRB_Dental/.

“I first joined the Navy as a hospital corpsman, and then I had the opportunity to assist some really great dentists in the Navy,” said Brethower. “I got out of the Navy and got accepted into the dental school at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, Missouri, and then applied for the Health Professional Scholarship Program.”

The U.S. Army Dental Corps’ work at MKAB demonstrates the vital role of dental care in military operations. Their dedication ensures that Soldiers remain in peak condition, ready to execute their missions and return home safely. As the U.S. Army continues its commitment to excellence, the contributions of its dental teams will remain a cornerstone of operational readiness and success.

For more information about dentistry in the Army, please visit https://recruiting.army.mil.