Off-base dental care made easy Published Oct. 24, 2008 By 52nd Dental Squadron SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Many changes have occurred at the 52nd Medical Group and Dental Squadron over the last year. Although the DS is committed to the highest levels of care for all members of the 52nd Fighter Wing community, some of the changes have limited access to dental care that is available to family members. But that doesn't mean family members have to wait to receive timely, high quality, dental care. Fortunately, the TRICARE Dental Program is available to take care of active-duty family members' dental needs. This is the same program that is available to family members while stationed in the Continental U.S. One major difference is that in Germany members actually pay less out-of-pocket expenses for most care than stateside. In fact, most routine care requires no copayment at all. Hundreds of family members have already taken advantage of this program and the feedback has been excellent. There are many benefits available to those who have signed up for the program. Not only does it cover the care provided here in the local area, it also extends coverage to your family members while back in the U.S. where military care is not available at all. Family members in the program can see a provider twice a year for dental exams, cleanings and X-rays at no cost. Sealants, routine fillings, oral surgery and many other procedures are also 100 percent covered, up to the $1,200 yearly maximum. And yes, even half the cost of braces is covered for eligible family members overseas. An additional benefit of using this program is the assurance of seeing the same provider for each dental visit. There are several offices on the local economy in the Spangdahlem-Bitburg area that are on the TRICARE-approved provider list. Each office has gone through an extensive survey before it was added to the approved list. Among the requirements, each dentist on the list must speak English, be a graduate of a dental school and possess a current German dental license, wear a mask and gloves during treatment and sterilize their instruments. Signing up is as easy as the click of a mouse. If family members are not already signed up for this program, go to www.TRICAREdentalprogram.com to sign up. Enroll online, or print the forms and mail or fax them in. After the first month's premium is paid online, future premiums will be automatically deducted from the member's monthly pay. It's all so easy! More specifics about the overseas benefits can also be found online at www.europe.tricare.osd.mil, including names, phone numbers and addresses of approved local providers. The dental clinics at both Spangdahlem and Bitburg can also help answer any questions about the TRICARE Dental Program, and offer provider lists.