Changes in Dental Classification during the First 4 Years of Military Service

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to examine the way in which the oral health of recruits changed during the 4 years immediately after entry on active duty. METHODS: In 1998, 1,331 dental records of recruits in the 1994 Tri-Service Comprehensive Oral Health Survey were located, and treatment data were analyzed. RESULTS: Class 1, treatment complete or no treatment indicated, was achieved by 61.2% (95% confidence interval, 58.4-64.0) of service members during the 4-year study period. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps percentages did not significantly differ in the range of 50% to 60%. The Air Force was significantly higher at 89.5% achieving class 1. CONCLUSIONS: All services were successful in achieving and maintaining operational readiness among 1994 recruits who spent 93% of their first 4 years of military service in a deployable oral health status (class 1 or 2). A significant number of recruits (38.8%) never achieved complete oral health (class 1).