Although Veteran status alone doesn’t automatically grant dental benefits within the VA health care, over 10,000 Veterans enrolled in Western North Carolina VA Health Care System are eligible for comprehensive dental services.
During fiscal year 2025, the dental clinic at the Charles George VA Medical Center delivered nearly 28,000 individual treatments—valued at over $4.8 million in equivalent community dental care, according to Dental Service Chief David V. Snyder, D.D.S.
“These statistics demonstrate that we are outperforming our peers in both productivity and the breadth of services we provide,” said Dr. Snyder.
The dental clinic offers examinations, cleanings, direct restorations, crowns, fixed and removable bridges, complete dentures, non-surgical periodontal treatments, and extractions.
When it comes to crowns, many are fabricated on-site and can sometimes be delivered the same day, thanks to the intraoral scanners and milling machines integrated into practice.
“The digital system we use allows us to scan the tooth preparation and electronically transmit the scan to the facility’s laboratory for crown fabrication,” said Dr. Snyder. “What used to be a six-week turnaround to receive a crown can now, in some cases, be completed in a single day.”
The dental service delivers care either directly on-site or through community referrals, with 2,767 Veterans receiving their dental care in the community over the past year. Wait times vary depending on the type of care; however, urgent needs may be expedited, said Dr. Snyder.
Walk-ins are also welcome for those eligible for dental care benefits who wish to have their concerns addressed. Although same-day treatment is not available, they can still be triaged and have an appointment scheduled.
Not all Veterans are eligible for VA dental care because eligibility is divided into specific classes, and only those who meet a class’s rules can receive VA dental treatment. However, if a dental condition is adversely affecting a medical condition currently under treatment, such as joint replacement surgery, the Veteran may receive focused dental care, explained Dr. Snyder.
Focused dental care may include emergency extractions to support other medical treatments, fabrication of sleep apnea appliances, and evaluation of potential oral cancers.
For the Dental Service, providing high‑quality, patient‑centered oral health care to every eligible Veteran serves is a core commitment that guides its daily practice and continuous improvement efforts.
There is an ongoing professional practice evaluation process for all providers that supports the delivery of safe, high‑quality care. In addition, environmental rounds are conducted on a routine basis to monitor conditions and promptly address any safety or quality concerns in the care environment.
To learn more about eligibility requirements visit: Dental Service is located on the second floor of the Charles George VA Medical Center and may be reached through secure messaging or by calling
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