U.S. Navy Bolsters Dental Services in South Korea

New Dentist Joins Branch Health Clinic in Chinhae

SOUTH KOREA: According to a recent article published on https://www.dvidshub.net/, the U.S. Navy has significantly enhanced its dental capabilities in South Korea with the arrival of Lieutenant Ryan Twaddle at the Branch Health Clinic (BHC) of U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Yokosuka aboard Fleet Activities Chinhae (CFAC). This marks the first time in recent history that the clinic has had a full-time dentist, addressing a crucial need for dental services in the area.

A Journey of Service and Adventure

Lt. Twaddle, originally from Lisle, Illinois, brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for both dentistry and naval service. After graduating from Marquette University in 2016 with a degree in Biological Sciences, he pursued his dental education through the Navy’s Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2019.

Explaining his decision to join the Navy, Twaddle stated, “The Navy offers the ability to travel, to work with and learn from people from all over. That is much more exciting than going to and from the same office for the rest of my life.” This sentiment underscores the unique opportunities for personal and professional growth that military service can provide.

Diverse Experience Prepares Dentist for New Role

Before his assignment in South Korea, Lt. Twaddle served at various naval facilities, including NMRTC Great Lakes and aboard the USS Ashland. His time on the ship proved particularly formative, as he recounts, “It was an incredible experience managing my own clinic, training technicians, cross-decking with an Australian ship, and being directly involved in Navy operations.”

This diverse background, coupled with his subsequent experience at U.S. Naval Hospital Rota in Spain, has prepared Twaddle for the challenges of expanding dental services at BHC Chinhae.

Commitment to Community and Service

Beyond his dental duties, Lt. Twaddle has taken on the role of sexual assault prevention response (SAPR) victim advocate. He views this not merely as a collateral duty but as “a way of life,” emphasizing the importance of being an approachable resource for the community.

Looking to the Future

While Lt. Twaddle is focused on his current mission of expanding dental services in Chinhae, he also has his sights set on future opportunities within the Navy. He aspires to complete a two-year residency in Comprehensive Dentistry and eventually serve on an aircraft carrier or with a Marine unit.

Reflecting on his career path, Twaddle shared, “I want to make the most of every experience.” This attitude, combined with his professional skills and commitment to service, suggests that Lt. Twaddle’s arrival in South Korea marks not only an improvement in dental care for naval personnel and their dependents but also represents the dedication and versatility of Navy dental officers.