Out in the field

Although most treatment is delivered in a clinic, the DDS also provides frontline dentistry during operations, whether at an army base or an aircraft carrier. In 2008, Wing Commander Claire Myhill was posted to Iraq, where she treated British troops and local civilians. She is proud that her work made a difference to operational effectiveness, helping to keep people on the ground and fit for service. 'One patient presented with a failed implant,' she remembers. 'Not having any specific experience, we made a phone call back to a specialist in the UK who talked me through the process and helped me diagnose what the issue was. We ended up taking the implant out under local anaesthetic, putting it in a bag and sending it back with the patient a few months later!'

When Tim Elmer was dental officer on an aircraft carrier, there were occasions when the sea was too rough to treat patients safely, but until that point he would wedge himself under the dental chair and tie a bungee cord to the bracket table so he and the patient would 'move in glorious harmony'. At the same time, Tim stresses, he was working in a fully-equipped dental surgery and could even call a consultant anaesthetist down from the sick bay if he needed to sedate a patient.

Career development

Back on dry land, there are plenty of opportunities for career and professional development within the DDS. Sarah and Claire have both been able to study for an MSc, while Tim was selected for a consultant training pathway in dental public health. 'It was an amazing opportunity to take a mid-life change in career direction while still being fully supported by my employer, which doesn't happen everywhere,' he says.

Such professional qualifications are funded by the armed services on the expectation that the dentist will commit to a specific length of service, and Sarah does sound a note of caution. 'There are training opportunities but what the service really needs is a strong cohort of capable, high quality dental practitioners.'

'The people make it'

Anyone thinking of a career as a forces dentist should be 'prepared for a bit of turbulence,' says Sarah. 'You have to be ready to adapt and overcome but at the same time you get developed and trained and there is a lot of mentoring. No one is thrown in at the deep end.'

'Everyone needs to decide if the lifestyle is for them', adds Claire Myhill. 'We generally move around every two to three years so it's definitely a lifestyle and not just a job. It's important to do your research online and if possible, speak to someone in the services.' Like Sarah, Claire is happy with her career choice and particularly the camaraderie of service life. 'The best part is the people - they really make it,' she reflects. 'I've met a great bunch of people throughout my career which has made it so enjoyable. Challenging at times, yes, but always enjoyable!'

Interview by Susan Field

Joining forces - morale-boosting dentistry

Joining forces - morale-boosting dentistry