Serving smiles: A CAF Dental Technician finds her calling

October 16, 2026 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 1:51

By Jessica Jagodics, Junior Communications Officer, Canadian Forces Health Services

“It’s really nice when people leave smiling because they’re just so happy about what you’ve done.”  

For Corporal (Cpl) Kimberly O’Dell, the Dental Technician occupation provides her with a new challenge to solve every time she steps into the clinic.  

For five years, Cpl O’Dell was a steward in the Navy with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). While considering a career change, she shadowed Dental Technicians and found herself drawn to their hands-on, collaborative work. Through the Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Training and Education Plan (NCMSTEP), she pursued the education needed to enter the occupation. 

“I love that it’s a hands-on job. No patient is the same, no filling is the same. It keeps your brain going. It gives you a challenge every day,” Cpl O’Dell said.  

Dental Technicians are responsible for assisting Dental Officers in delivering dental care to CAF members. Their duties include preparing for procedures, sterilizing instruments, supporting patients, and providing chairside clinical assistance. 

Cpl O’Dell says one of the things she finds most rewarding about the occupation is the daily patient interactions.  

“It’s a really rewarding job because people come in in pain, or they just don’t like something about the way their teeth look. It’s amazing to watch someone’s confidence go up when you do something for them. It could be something so little, but it could change their life,” she said.  

In the clinic, Dental Technicians must be prepared to problem-solve and adapt quickly when planned procedures change. Cpl O’Dell said the key to success is being “willing and adaptable.” 

“There are times where you might have originally started out with a filling, and then when you get in there, you might discover that the tooth can’t be saved. You must be able to switch and change,” she said.  

NCMSTEP played a crucial role in helping Cpl O’Dell become a Dental Technician. The program allowed her to focus on her studies without worrying about tuition costs or having to work part-time. 

“The NCMSTEP program allowed me to be a better Dental Technician because I got to focus on my studies while still getting support from the CAF,” she said.  

Through NCMSTEP, the CAF covers tuition, books, and required academic equipment. Serving members receive pay and benefits and continue to accumulate pensionable service while completing their studies. Applicants must apply to an authorized college program and meet the internal NCMSTEP eligibility and selection requirements.  

Interested in becoming a Dental Technician or pursuing further education through NCMSTEP? Learn more about the Dental Technician occupation or contact your Base Personnel Selection Officer to discuss eligibility and application requirements. Complete applications must be submitted by October 23, 2026.