Yesterday we received a packet in the mail concerning a Dental evaluation for appointed candidates. Initially, it appears to be something that is required, however upon reading more carefully, the letter says "we encourage"...you to have a dental evaluation. And, on the top of the form the dentist is to actually complete, it says "this evaluation is completely optional..." So, it appears this is something not mandatory. My daughter has already had braces, and has no dental issues. Her wisdome teeth have not been extracted but she is having no issues with them (her father had his in until late into adult life). Can anyone confirm that this is something we dont' absolutely have to do?
Dental Evaluation Packet
- Thread starter GreyHogs
- Start date
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- Sep 7, 2009
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- 324
From the "Dental FAQ's" information sheet on the candidate portal:
Why am I being asked to have a dental exam and x-rays? Didn't DoDMERB remove that requirement?
True, DoDMERB no longer requires candidates to the service academies to complete a dental screening; this requirement was eliminated prior to last year's candidate application process. (Actually, DoDMERB reviewed candidates for ROTC as well as academies, and the benefit to risk ratio for that population was deemed insignificant to continue.) However, at West Point we felt there was an elevated risk if we neglected to assess the dental health of the incoming new cadets, which is why we now administer our own program. A simple form, filled out by your family dentist, and copies of recent x-rays (panorex film and bitewings, which we then include in the military treatment record when they are mailed to us) affords us an excellent means of pre-screening all candidates. Ultimately, we feel that this proactive approach to assessing the existing dental fitness and needs of the incoming class postures us to provide the best care to our cadets.
Why am I being asked to have a dental exam and x-rays? Didn't DoDMERB remove that requirement?
True, DoDMERB no longer requires candidates to the service academies to complete a dental screening; this requirement was eliminated prior to last year's candidate application process. (Actually, DoDMERB reviewed candidates for ROTC as well as academies, and the benefit to risk ratio for that population was deemed insignificant to continue.) However, at West Point we felt there was an elevated risk if we neglected to assess the dental health of the incoming new cadets, which is why we now administer our own program. A simple form, filled out by your family dentist, and copies of recent x-rays (panorex film and bitewings, which we then include in the military treatment record when they are mailed to us) affords us an excellent means of pre-screening all candidates. Ultimately, we feel that this proactive approach to assessing the existing dental fitness and needs of the incoming class postures us to provide the best care to our cadets.