Pre-deployment dental care is more important than most realize Published May 16, 2013 By SSgt Firas Zako 59th Dental Group JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- -- While it is easy to understand the importance of meeting the medical readiness standards for deployment, many fail to realize the importance of pre-deployment dental care. When deployed, you must focus on accomplishing the mission, not correcting any dental issues that may arise. Spare yourself the pain of trying to address dental problems downrange - dental care in the field isn't what it is stateside. Common dental emergencies in the theater are due to problems associated with third molars, more commonly referred to as wisdom teeth. These teeth often do not develop or surface normally, and can often end up becoming partially impacted - meaning half way in and half way out of the gum tissue. This creates an environment in which food debris and bacteria can easily become trapped between the gums and the newly erupting teeth, making it very difficult for the individual to keep the area clean. Receiving the surgical care necessary to remove these teeth is much more difficult in a deployed environment, as opposed to performing the procedure at the home station - all the more reason for Airmen to receive their pre-deployment dental screening, whether they are experiencing symptoms or not. During the screening, the dentist also carefully examines all the teeth to identify any cavities. Cavities have the potential to lead to an infection, which is also difficult to handle in a deployed environment. As a result, the individual may experience severe toothaches, discomfort when biting or chewing, and even swelling. Again, dental treatment is often limited and not ideal in the deployed environment, so it is important have any cavities treated prior to deploying. In order to prevent the development of cavities during a deployment, Airmen should continue practicing good oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day - especially before bed, and daily flossing are two basics everyone should practice regularly. Additionally, when Airmen are deployed, they normally work 12 to 14 hour shifts and experience stresses they are not accustomed to at their home station. To overcome fatigue, many deployed members consume energy drinks or sugary snacks to help them stay awake. This repeated snacking will lead to a constant sugar attack on the teeth, which weakens tooth enamel and can cause cavities. If these sugary products are consumed, remember to eat and drink them quickly - do not sip on a soda or energy drink all day. Chewing sugarless gum that contains Xylitol, an agent which strengthens enamel, can help prevent cavities from developing between brushing. To schedule a pre-deployment dental exam, the active duty member deploying should contact 210-292-7251. For more information about improving your oral health, visit the Army's decay risk self-check module at http://usaphcapps.amedd.army.mil/CRAT/. USAF. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res USAF. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez)