Dentist’s chair to deployment

Photo By Staff Sgt. Christopher Maldonado | A set of dental picks lay on a tray at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., March 13, 2017. As of March 2017, the 20th DS has prepared 97.1 percent of Team Shaw Airmen to be dentally deployable, with the Air Force’s goal being 95 percent. Airmen assigned to Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., are required to receive an annual dental check-up intended to ensure that Airmen are meeting oral requirements for deployment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Christopher Maldonado)  

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, SC, UNITED STATES

03.14.2017

Story by Airman 1st Class Christopher Maldonado 

20th Fighter Wing

Approximately 35 Airmen and civilians support service members at the 20th Dental Squadron clinic, with more than 1,575 dental visits per month during the 2016 fiscal year.

“We provide comprehensive oral care, which ranges from basic exams all the way to specialty care,” said Capt. Sarah Curry, 20th DS general dentist. “This includes oral surgery and endodontics such as root canals, crown implants and fillings.”

Although Airmen are required to receive an annual check-up, these appointments are intended to prevent future appointments while in a deployed location.

“Dentists aren’t going to be downrange telling them to brush their teeth or floss,” said Curry.

According to Curry, taking initiative is a big part of ensuring success.

“I don’t know if you’ve ever had a toothache before, but it’s not fun,” said Curry. “It’s not a pleasant experience and we certainly don’t want our Airmen in pain or uncomfortable while deployed, taking their mind off their mission.”

As of March 2017, the 20th DS has prepared 97.1 percent of Team Shaw Airmen to be dentally deployable, with the Air Force’s goal being 95 percent.

Ensuring that Airmen are deployment-ready is one of the biggest impacts that the squadron has on service members. Along with ensuring Airmen are ready, the 20th DS builds bonds with the patients they help.

“I feel like the dental squadron provides special care for the Airmen here,” said Airman 1st Class Amie Bickford, 20th Equipment Maintenance Squadron munitions technician. “Every time I do have a problem, they’re able to offer me a quick appointment to make sure everything is fixed. They are willing to work with you. If you are uncomfortable, they will stop to make sure you are always in your comfort zone.”

When the 20th DS tends to service members, they prevent dental damage and can be the difference between going downrange and being kept from deployment.

• Date Taken: 03.14.2017
• Date Posted: 03.14.2017 11:53
• Story ID: 226772
• Location: SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, SC, US