At Aspen Dental, service isn’t something we recognize only on patriotic holidays, it’s part of who we are, every day. As we celebrate the Fourth of July, we’re proud to honor our veteran team members and reflect on what it means to help them build rewarding civilian careers rooted in purpose, growth, and impact. From dentists and dental assistants to support staff and practice owners, veterans across our network are continuing to serve, this time through patient care.

A Purpose-Driven Path Forward
For veterans entering the civilian workforce, the transition can be filled with uncertainty. The structure, camaraderie, and mission-focused environment of military life doesn’t always carry over into a typical workplace. That’s where Aspen Dental stands out. Here, we provide more than just a job. We offer a clear path to advancement, a built-in network of support, and a mission that resonates with those who have already dedicated their lives to service. Veterans at Aspen Dental find: a structured, scalable career path with room to grow from day one, whether starting as a dental assistant, hygienist, or new grad dentist; mentorship from experienced leaders, including veterans who’ve made the same transition; access to continuing education, advanced clinical training, and leadership development; and ownership opportunities for those looking to take the next step and lead their own practice. It’s not just about employment, it’s about belonging to a mission-minded team that values service, accountability, and heart.

Real Stories, Real Impact
That sense of purpose is what drew many veterans to Aspen Dental in the first place. Dr. Hattie Willard, a former U.S. Air Force dentist, joined Aspen after completing her military service. She now leads a practice in Colorado Springs and continues to apply her clinical expertise and team-first mindset every day. “In the Air Force, my job was to get my fellow service members out of pain so they could focus on their missions,” she said. “At Aspen, I still carry that same urgency and commitment, for my patients and my team.” Dr. Marco Gargano, an Army National Guardsman and practice owner in Missouri, treats many military families and veterans in his community. He’s known for taking the time to connect with patients who’ve served, sometimes offering treatment at no cost when needed. “Aspen never made me choose between continuing to serve in the Guard and building my practice,” he said. “That kind of support matters.”

How Aspen Dental Supports Veterans: On and Off the Clock
We know veterans bring leadership, resilience, and compassion into every room they enter. That’s why we’ve built programs, pathways, and partnerships that ensure they succeed. At Aspen Dental, we offer veteran-friendly hiring practices and recruiters who understand military backgrounds; ongoing clinical mentorship so no provider feels like they’re navigating alone; leadership retreats, CE credits, and community-building events across the network; support for Reserve and National Guard members, including flexibility for drill weekends; and a commitment to practice ownership, backed by tools and resources for those ready to lead. Aspen Dental also partners with organizations that support military families and veterans, helping to bridge the gap between service and civilian life.

Bringing Care to Those Who’ve Served
We don’t just hire veterans, we serve them. Across 1,100+ locations, our teams regularly care for patients who’ve served in the military, many of whom face barriers to consistent dental care. To support this community, Aspen launched the Healthy Mouth Movement, which has provided free dental care to thousands of veterans nationwide. While the initiative has evolved, its heart remains the same: to ensure that no one who’s served is left behind when it comes to their health. Whether it’s same-day treatment, affordable denture options, or just a compassionate listening ear, our teams do whatever it takes to support those who’ve given so much.

A New Kind of Mission
Veterans are built for leadership. They thrive in fast-paced, high-accountability environments. And they care deeply about the people they serve. At Aspen Dental, we’ve created a space where all of that can thrive. Whether you're just beginning your civilian career or looking to take the next step in leadership, Aspen Dental offers a new kind of mission; one where your work truly makes a difference. This Fourth of July, we’re proud to honor all those who have served and proud to help them continue that service in a new way.

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