A medical training exercise gave residents of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, including U.S. Embassy staff, an opportunity to receive dental care as part of MEDFLAG 10.

"It's been about two years that I've been trying to get to the dentist," said Kathryn Anne Crowder, a family member of an embassy worker in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). "So this is a much needed visit."

Crowder was one of about 35 patients seen by three Air Force Reserve Dentists visiting the DRC as part of MEDFLAG 10.

MEDFLAG is an annual joint medical training exercise that allows U.S. military service members to work side by side with their African counterparts. In addition to training, the joint forces also provide humanitarian and civic assistance to the local population.

"Working with the local population has given us the feeling we are reaching those that really need it," said Lieutenant Colonel Jacqueline Garcia-Castellanos of Miami, a member of the 482nd Aeromedical Dental Squadron, Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida.

Both American and Congolese dental professionals spent several days in classroom training reviewing the necessity of basic oral hygiene and preventive care before providing assistance to Kinshasa residents.

Medical and dental staff will assess roughly 2000 cases and provide the necessary care to the Congolese citizens during a four-day period of the exercise.

"The experience has been quite enlightening," said Garcia-Castellanos. "It has given us the opportunity to engage in active dental care side by side with the Congolese army dental corps and the exchange has been excellent."