MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. — The Maxwell Medical Group’s Dental Flight has expanded its in-house oral surgery and digital dentistry capabilities, strengthening Airman readiness by delivering faster and more comprehensive care on base.
The clinic can now perform complex procedures that were previously referred to civilian providers, including root canals, implants, wisdom tooth extractions, and advanced periodontal surgeries. The move reduces delays and keeps critical dental care within the military health system.
“We’ve been referring out a lot of procedures,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Thomas Hardison, a comprehensive dentist with the Maxwell Medical Group. “Having the training and capability here brings a lot of that care back in-house.”
Dental readiness plays a vital role in preparing Airmen for deployment, often under tight timelines. The dental team frequently prioritizes deploying personnel to ensure no unresolved dental issues delay missions.
“When patients are deploying, we make sure they’re ready to go,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ernessie Ladouceur, dental flight chief. “If something is limiting them, we act quickly to get them cleared.”
Alongside restoring sedation services, the clinic is expanding advanced procedures such as sinus lifts, ridge augmentation, and other surgical treatments. These additions further reduce the need for off-base referrals.
Modern digital dentistry is central to the clinic’s upgrades. With two 3D printers in operation, most workflows are now fully digital, from intraoral scanning to printing models and milling restorations. This technology improves accuracy while shortening chair time for patients.
“We scan everything, 3D print models, and mill restorations,” Hardison said. “It makes care more efficient and precise.”
Keeping advanced dental services on base also improves continuity of care, as all treatment records remain within the military medical system.
“The biggest impact is continuity,” Ladouceur said. “Airmen can receive their care here without going off base. It’s one less thing for them to worry about.”
The Dental Flight’s mission remains focused on ensuring active-duty personnel are medically prepared for global operations.
“Our goal is to make sure Airmen are fit and ready,” Ladouceur said. “So when they deploy, they’re not worried about something like a toothache.”