Smiles of Service: Honoring Our Veteran Dental Pros
This Veterans Day, we’re spotlighting three remarkable dental professionals whose stories remind us that care — whether for a country or a patient — starts with dedication, discipline, and heart.
Each served in the U.S. Armed Forces before continuing their mission to make the world a little brighter, one smile at a time. Here, they share reflections from their time in uniform, lessons that shaped their approach to care, and how their service continues to inspire their work today.
Dr. Ben Truong
U.S. Air Force Dentist
Scott AFB, Illinois & Osan AB, South Korea
For Dr. Ben Truong, service runs deeper than duty — it’s a tribute to the country that gave his family a second chance.
“My parents were refugees who risked their lives fleeing Vietnam. Joining the military was my way of honoring the country that gave my family a new life and countless opportunities.”
Over his four years in the Air Force, Dr. Truong found connection in the diversity of his peers and patients.
“I met so many incredible individuals from all across the world. Reflecting on those connections reminds me that our similarities far outweigh our differences.”
Today, those lessons translate to care rooted in empathy and respect — traits he still carries into every appointment (and every “sir” or “ma’am”).
As for his biggest piece of advice for fellow veterans? Night guards.
“Throughout my experience treating military members, I've seen so many cases of worn or cracked teeth, TMD, and headaches. Our high-stress careers put us at greater risk for bruxism, and a night guard can help protect against these issues.”
Favorite COCOLAB product: Cara Cara Orange Cocofloss — “It is my favorite flavor and my teeth feel so clean after I use it!”
Dr. Jessie Vallee
U.S. Navy Dental Officer
USS Ronald Reagan, Fallujah, Camp Arifjan, and Okinawa
When Dr. Jessie Vallee joined the Navy, she followed in the footsteps of her grandfathers — one a Marine Colonel, the other a Navy serviceman. What began as a way to fund dental school became an unforgettable chapter of courage and growth.
“Serving in Iraq as the only female officer in the battalion forced me to develop resilience and toughness. It pushed me far outside my comfort zone and taught me the value of working toward the greater good.”
Her time in the field demanded creativity — and grit.
“No dental lab in a war zone? Find some repair acrylic in your field kit and make one yourself. No lights in the middle of a root canal? Have your assistant hold a flashlight for you.”
Now the CEO and co-founder of the J. Barber Collection, Dr. Vallee channels that same innovation into everything she builds. Her oral health advice for veterans is simple but powerful:
“Sipping on sugary or carbonated beverages throughout the day is absolutely the most prevalent silent killer of dentition, both in active duty and veterans — whether it's coffee with sugar or soda. The habit sticks around even after getting out.”
Favorite COCOLAB product: The O.G. Cocofloss — “I love how it glides down under the contact easily, but then expands back out to pick up plaque. I feel like it's scrubbing my tooth. I think it's especially great for people with open embrasures or slight surface concavities.”
Dr. Gina Betita
U.S. Air Force Dental Corps
Texas, South Korea, Italy
Six years, three countries, and countless smiles later — Dr. Gina Betita credits her military experience for shaping her strength, empathy, and drive.
“The military is excellent at placing you in situations you’re not prepared for — it constantly tests your ability to think quickly and perform well under pressure. At times, it honestly scared the heck out of me! But those experiences pushed me to rise to the occasion and overcome challenges I never thought I could.”
Now the CEO and owner of Halo Dental Care in the Bay Area, Dr. Betita brings that same sense of teamwork and precision to her practice.
“In both the military and dentistry, teamwork is everything. Military families and units are incredibly close-knit, and that same sense of collaboration applies to a dental team. Success — whether in a mission or a complex dental procedure — relies on working together and drawing from everyone’s strengths. We’re never meant to do it alone”
Her oral care advice to fellow veterans is both practical and empowering:
“When it comes to flossing, start small — commit to once a week, then build up to a daily habit. Remember, this is your smile — the first thing your baby notices when they’re born, the first thing an employer sees, and one of the best ways to express your personality. You’re worth it. You’re worth every bit of this investment in yourself!”
Favorite COCOLAB product: Cocofloss — “It’s hands down the best way to clean between teeth. The texture and thickness are just right — it feels substantial enough to really scrub the surfaces clean, yet smooth enough not to snag on fillings. I’m not sure what their secret formula is, but I never leave home without it!”
A Note from COCOLAB
We’re honored to celebrate these three incredible veterans—and all who’ve served—with gratitude that runs deeper than words. Their stories remind us that care is an act of courage, and that the strength to serve, protect, and heal begins with compassion.
To every veteran: thank you for your service—and for the smiles you continue to inspire.
