KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Behind every Airman ready to deploy is a team dedicated to keeping them fit to fight, starting with their smile. At Kadena Air Base, the 18th Dental Squadron ensures readiness of the Air Force’s largest combat wing through expert care, teamwork and precision.
“The primary function of the 18th DS is to make sure we all support the Air Force’s largest combat wing by ensuring that all active-duty personnel are medically fit for duty,” said Airman 1st Class Robert Brown, 18th DS dental assistant. “We conduct clearance exams and emergency care for our members to ensure they are deployable at all times.”
The 18th DS supports about 1,500 to 1,700 patients each month, focusing primarily on active-duty personnel while providing care to dependents as availability allows. Their mission ensures dental issues never become barriers to operational readiness.
With a team of approximately 100 military and civilian professionals, the 18th DS offers a full range of specialties: from comprehensive dentistry and orthodontics to oral surgery and preventive care. This broad capability allows the unit to address nearly every dental concern in-house, reducing wait times and keeping Airmen mission-ready.
“Communication within the team is very important, especially during times of high operational readiness,” said Staff Sgt. Gage Carmello, 18th DS class three monitor. “Our care affects our patients’ overall quality of life so we take it seriously.”
Beyond daily clinical care, the squadron prioritizes professional growth and continuing education. Every team member completes at least 12 hours of continuing education annually while maintaining all required certifications, ensuring their skills remain sharp in both peacetime and contingency operations.
Through professionalism and precision, the 18th DS exemplifies the connection between dental health and mission health. Whether supporting deployed units or providing care at home station, their work ensures the Pacific Air Forces remain fit to fight— one smile at a time.