How can dentistry intersect with military deployment?

So I have a big interest in dentistry. I've also been considering joining the military, but I'd still want to explore a dental pathway. I'm curious about any roles, programs, or steps I should be looking into where I could potentially be a dentist assisting on deployments? Thanks for your time.

Combining a career in dentistry with military service is definitely possible. In fact, each branch of the U.S. military has its own dental corps, including the U.S. Army Dental Corps, Navy Dental Corps, and Air Force Dental Corps. The dental officers in these corps essentially serve as the military's resident dentists, providing dental care to service members and, at times, their families.

Potential dental officers typically need to have a dental degree from an accredited institution before they can enter the service. If you're still in high school or college and are considering this career path, you might want to look into programs that offer scholarships or funding for dental school in exchange for military service.

For example, the U.S. Army offers the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) which pays for the full cost of tuition, books, and equipment for dental school. In return, students commit to a certain number of years of active duty service after graduation. The Navy and Air Force offer similar programs.

Alternatively, you can attend the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), which offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree. This school is unique in the military education system as attendance is fully funded by the military and students receive an active duty commission and pay while attending.

Once you're in the military as a dental professional, you could be deployed anywhere in the world where U.S. troops are stationed. The specific duties on deployment would vary depending on the needs of the troops in the area, but they can range from routine cleanings and exams to emergency dental care like root canals or dental extractions.

By pursuing this route, you'd have the opportunity to serve your country in a unique way by looking after the dental health of those serving in the military. It’s a valuable and rewarding path that combines your interests in both dentistry and the military together. It's always advisable to reach out to local recruiters or professionals in the field to get more personalized advice based on your specific interest and situation. Good luck!