Posted on Nov 9, 2022
I'm in the process of enlisting with Army NG and I have bad teeth, will I get turned away during my physical or at in processing?
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My recruiter swears up and down that they will fix them but I'm to afraid to get my hopes up just to get let down to be honest. Does anyone have any real insight on this subject? (Sorry if I tagged the wrong topics, I'm new here)
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Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS)
Adjutant General (AG)
Standards
Army Reserve Elements
Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) Adjutant General (AG) Standards Army Reserve Elements
Posted 3 y ago
Responses: 8
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I’ve only seen a few cases where it was bad enough to keep the individal from serving. In those cases it was beyond bad teeth. They were dealing with gum issues that led to issues in the jaw bone.
This is why you have a medical and dental screening. You will be checked out and verified.
This is why you have a medical and dental screening. You will be checked out and verified.
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I've never seen anyone turned away for bad teeth unless you have serious gingivitis and bleeding gums. They will fix your teeth in basic. You might even get lucky and get braces if they have an orthodontist available
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CPO Nate S.
PVT (Join to see) - So, go get them pulled and get a whole new mouth.
Look into Aspen Dental (https://www.aspendental.com/.) I hear they are good. While my teeth are good, I have friends whose are not, and they are whole new people after working with these people. Because you get new teeth (i.e., implants) still does not mean you don't take care of your oral hygiene. In fact, it will become incumbent for you to be more vigilant!!!
Just some thoughts from a retired USN Hospital Corpsman.
Look into Aspen Dental (https://www.aspendental.com/.) I hear they are good. While my teeth are good, I have friends whose are not, and they are whole new people after working with these people. Because you get new teeth (i.e., implants) still does not mean you don't take care of your oral hygiene. In fact, it will become incumbent for you to be more vigilant!!!
Just some thoughts from a retired USN Hospital Corpsman.
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PVT (Join to see)
CPO Nate S. I actually did go there a couple of weeks ago as a matter of fact. They are fantastic indeed, but I can't afford the 6k out of pocket. And that's with insurance.
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CPO Nate S.
PVT (Join to see) - So I am confused. You are in the National Guard now and you are planning to go on active duty? If so, have you spoken to someone in your NG unit who deals with medical/dental issues?
Also, are you aware of Delta Dental (https://www.deltadental.com/)? You should be able get a solid and affordable plan (https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/product/individual-and-family.html) with them, especially as a member of the Guard.
Check it out for yourself, but I had a minute and provided the attached graphic. When you go to the sight you will put in you state. From there you can look at the various and click to learn more details. Take some time to get familiar.
Again, if you are already in the NG you have to pass an annual physical.
Like some have said, I remember some who came through MEPS with me; the "medical folks" told them the Navy would fix them up. I'm not sure what is happening today, but I remember that even in Bootcamp some guys got major fillings and extractions done while in bootcamp.
In any event, ask questions and don't fear. Be honest! Don't take NO for an answer!!! Continue to search for options!
Best I can offer you. Like others have said and I'll say it again, check with you NG units medical/dental people. There is a proper answer!!!!
Just thoughts from an old sailor....................
PS You try the Navy vs the Army. At least the Naval Reserve! Unless of course you live in Montana! LoL
Also, are you aware of Delta Dental (https://www.deltadental.com/)? You should be able get a solid and affordable plan (https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/product/individual-and-family.html) with them, especially as a member of the Guard.
Check it out for yourself, but I had a minute and provided the attached graphic. When you go to the sight you will put in you state. From there you can look at the various and click to learn more details. Take some time to get familiar.
Again, if you are already in the NG you have to pass an annual physical.
Like some have said, I remember some who came through MEPS with me; the "medical folks" told them the Navy would fix them up. I'm not sure what is happening today, but I remember that even in Bootcamp some guys got major fillings and extractions done while in bootcamp.
In any event, ask questions and don't fear. Be honest! Don't take NO for an answer!!! Continue to search for options!
Best I can offer you. Like others have said and I'll say it again, check with you NG units medical/dental people. There is a proper answer!!!!
Just thoughts from an old sailor....................
PS You try the Navy vs the Army. At least the Naval Reserve! Unless of course you live in Montana! LoL
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A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney
My Ex Worked For Delta Dental Plan, At The Main Office In Okemos, Michigan...
Great Insurance Coverage...
Lousy Place To Work.
Great Insurance Coverage...
Lousy Place To Work.
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They should be able to do this once you arrive at your first permanent duty station!
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It could require a waiver depending on how bad it is. Based on your other comments, it could be seriously bad.
Standards of dental fitness for recruiting are covered in the Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6130.03*, paragraph 5.8.
You said your "teeth are pretty bad ... realistically just need them all pulled and to get a whole new set". If that truly is the case, and not an exaggeration, you'll probably need a medical waiver in order to enlist - you would "not pass go and not collect your enlistment" by the first dentist that gives you a look over (or, rather, you SHOULDN'T ... there are many cases when something that shouldn't have 'slipped through the cracks' did).
The DoDI states the following are things that would prevent your enlistment (just listing the ones that sounds like they might apply .. look at the DoDI for a complete listing):
- Eight or more grossly (visually) cavitated or carious teeth
- Current severe malocclusion, which interferes with normal chewing or requires immediate
and protracted treatment
The above two can be summed up this way - if you have 8 or more "bad teeth", you'll need a waiver.
If your teeth are so misaligned that you can't chew properly, you'll need a waiver.
Like SFC (Join to see), I've never seen anyone turned away because of bad teeth, but I've also seen people that would have been turned away if they tried enlisting. If your teeth are as bad as "needing to pull them all and start over again" ... yeah, you'll likely have a tough time of it.
If you do make it through, the military will fix everything wrong with your mouth ... once you are actually accepted into the military. Things that are wrong that won't prevent enlisting, they'll fix. Need to have all your teeth pulled and "start over again"? They'll do that. Do $100,000 worth of dental work because you did a faceplant on the cement sidewalk? They'll do that.
Again, the key is once you are actually accepted and make it though the pre-enlistment medical wickets.
-------------------------
DoDI 6130.03 - https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/613003_v1p.PDF
Standards of dental fitness for recruiting are covered in the Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6130.03*, paragraph 5.8.
You said your "teeth are pretty bad ... realistically just need them all pulled and to get a whole new set". If that truly is the case, and not an exaggeration, you'll probably need a medical waiver in order to enlist - you would "not pass go and not collect your enlistment" by the first dentist that gives you a look over (or, rather, you SHOULDN'T ... there are many cases when something that shouldn't have 'slipped through the cracks' did).
The DoDI states the following are things that would prevent your enlistment (just listing the ones that sounds like they might apply .. look at the DoDI for a complete listing):
- Eight or more grossly (visually) cavitated or carious teeth
- Current severe malocclusion, which interferes with normal chewing or requires immediate
and protracted treatment
The above two can be summed up this way - if you have 8 or more "bad teeth", you'll need a waiver.
If your teeth are so misaligned that you can't chew properly, you'll need a waiver.
Like SFC (Join to see), I've never seen anyone turned away because of bad teeth, but I've also seen people that would have been turned away if they tried enlisting. If your teeth are as bad as "needing to pull them all and start over again" ... yeah, you'll likely have a tough time of it.
If you do make it through, the military will fix everything wrong with your mouth ... once you are actually accepted into the military. Things that are wrong that won't prevent enlisting, they'll fix. Need to have all your teeth pulled and "start over again"? They'll do that. Do $100,000 worth of dental work because you did a faceplant on the cement sidewalk? They'll do that.
Again, the key is once you are actually accepted and make it though the pre-enlistment medical wickets.
-------------------------
DoDI 6130.03 - https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/613003_v1p.PDF
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PVT (Join to see)
SFC (Join to see) Thank you. You guys have been very helpful, especially opposed to other forums. I guess I'll try to quit worrying myself to death now.
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PVT (Join to see)
COL Randall C. thank you sir, I have brought it up to my recruiter several times but he just keeps telling me not to worry about it and that they'll fix them once I'm in.
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CPO Nate S.
PVT (Join to see) - Then it is ON your recruiter!!! Just be prepared with an alternate plan if you told otherwise at MEPS but you are otherwise qualified except teeth. All you can do is tell the recruiter, so let the chips fall where they may.
BTW in the US Navy some of us kept what are known as "Wheel Books":
"In the U.S. Navy, "Wheel Books" were once found in the uniform pockets of every junior and many senior petty officers. Each small notebook was unique to the Sailor carrying it, but all had in common a collection of data and wisdom that the individual deemed useful in the effective execution of his or her duties. Often used as a substitute for experience among neophytes and as a portable library of reference information for more experienced personnel, those weathered pages contained everything from the time of the next tide, to leadership hints from a respected chief petty officer, to the color coding of the phone-and-distance line used in underway replenishments, and even notes of conversations important to good order and discipline."
In other words, any I realize this sounds silly in this "electronic age" but think about have a personal "wheel book" of sorts (https://www.amazon.com/Notebook-Hardcover-Pockets-Leather-Journal/dp/B08R8TGPRG). From your recruiter to your future military endeavors, it is important to take notes. This avoids the "he said / she said" BS. When you are a note taker it demonstrates you are paying attention. Simple record in your "wheel book" when you spoke to you recruiter and generally what was said. Make to log the data and time you made this note. Should anything happen you have a record.
This can be done electronically as well, but sometimes "hard copy" is better.
Up to you! Just saying CYA!!!
BTW in the US Navy some of us kept what are known as "Wheel Books":
"In the U.S. Navy, "Wheel Books" were once found in the uniform pockets of every junior and many senior petty officers. Each small notebook was unique to the Sailor carrying it, but all had in common a collection of data and wisdom that the individual deemed useful in the effective execution of his or her duties. Often used as a substitute for experience among neophytes and as a portable library of reference information for more experienced personnel, those weathered pages contained everything from the time of the next tide, to leadership hints from a respected chief petty officer, to the color coding of the phone-and-distance line used in underway replenishments, and even notes of conversations important to good order and discipline."
In other words, any I realize this sounds silly in this "electronic age" but think about have a personal "wheel book" of sorts (https://www.amazon.com/Notebook-Hardcover-Pockets-Leather-Journal/dp/B08R8TGPRG). From your recruiter to your future military endeavors, it is important to take notes. This avoids the "he said / she said" BS. When you are a note taker it demonstrates you are paying attention. Simple record in your "wheel book" when you spoke to you recruiter and generally what was said. Make to log the data and time you made this note. Should anything happen you have a record.
This can be done electronically as well, but sometimes "hard copy" is better.
Up to you! Just saying CYA!!!
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My husband whom I met while in the Air Force had a fellow when he went to basic that chewed tobacco. That tobacco chewer did get his teeth fixed. So, go ahead and enlist. Perhaps you will even consider going active.
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You have been provided with solid responses. I have on bit of input. I hope you are not enlisting just to get your teeth fixed the Military is a great place to change your life in many positive ways. You do though, need to understand what you are in for. Good luck.
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PVT (Join to see)
No I'm definitely not enlisting for that. It's been a life long dream of mine to serve and I'd be devastated if my teeth are what stops me to be honest.
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PVT (Join to see)
A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney yeah I've definitely had some rough days with pain. I guess will see how things go at my physical on Monday!
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A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney
PVT (Join to see) - ....
I Was Hoping You'd Not Be In Pain...
Those Darn Things Really Hurt....
Are You Able To Get Anything To Help With It?
If Not, Haul-Ass Over To The Hospitals ER.
Those Doctors Should Be Able To Do Something For You.
Just The Thought Of Dental Pain Puts Nails Up My Spine...
Good Luck... I Wish You The Best....
I Was Hoping You'd Not Be In Pain...
Those Darn Things Really Hurt....
Are You Able To Get Anything To Help With It?
If Not, Haul-Ass Over To The Hospitals ER.
Those Doctors Should Be Able To Do Something For You.
Just The Thought Of Dental Pain Puts Nails Up My Spine...
Good Luck... I Wish You The Best....
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PVT (Join to see)
A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney well I'm not currently in any pain, theres been times I have been though. I went to the dentist the other week in hopes of having it taken care of before enlisting but I just can't afford the 6k out of pocket cost to have them all yanked and to get a new set. So hopefully I can have it done during or after basic training. Thank you!
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A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney
PVT (Join to see) - ....I Agree 6K Is More Than Most Of Us Have On Hand,
But What You May Want To Consider Is Applying Medicaid To See If They'll Cover The Expense, And I'm Pretty Sure They Will If You Can Qualify For The Benefits. Actually, Probably Even Easier If You Make A Telephone Call .....One Thing You Really Don't Want To Do, Is Go Through Basic Every Day In Pain...That Would Really Be A Bi*ch.!
Contact Us | Medicaid
http://www.medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us/index.html
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 7500 Security Boulevard Baltimore, Maryland 21244-1850 Toll-Free: [login to see] Local: [login to see] TTY Toll-Free: [login to see] TTY Local: [login to see] Medicaid.gov Mailbox: [login to see] .gov
But What You May Want To Consider Is Applying Medicaid To See If They'll Cover The Expense, And I'm Pretty Sure They Will If You Can Qualify For The Benefits. Actually, Probably Even Easier If You Make A Telephone Call .....One Thing You Really Don't Want To Do, Is Go Through Basic Every Day In Pain...That Would Really Be A Bi*ch.!
Contact Us | Medicaid
http://www.medicaid.gov/about-us/contact-us/index.html
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 7500 Security Boulevard Baltimore, Maryland 21244-1850 Toll-Free: [login to see] Local: [login to see] TTY Toll-Free: [login to see] TTY Local: [login to see] Medicaid.gov Mailbox: [login to see] .gov
The Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS) is committed to working in close partnership with states, as well as providers, families, and other stakeholders to support effective, innovative, and high quality health coverage programs. Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are joint federal/state programs for which state Medicaid/CHIP agencies have full responsibility for all aspects of the administration and operation...
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Well I made it through my physical at MEPS, I guess I'll see if they boot me out at reception now
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