Fort Huachuca, AZ. - For almost 13 years Burton Becker, DDS, a civilian periodontist from Tucson, has driven 80 miles one way to provide dental support to the Fort Huachuca Dental Clinic Command, one day a week.
Becker has been active in the periodontics and implant dentistry field for more than 50 years. Originally from Tucson, Becker was stationed at Fort Huachuca from 1966 -- 1968 as a dental officer. Following the military, he attended and graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1971.
Since then, he has continued to practice in Tucson.
When he is at Fort Huachuca, he conducts periodontal treatments including examinations of the gums and the supporting tissues of the teeth. On average, Becker sees two to three surgical patients and 2 to 3 regular examinations each day.
"I treat any Soldier that is in need, from E-1s to generals," said Becker.
Aside from the long drive, Becker explained that coming to Sierra Vista is a nice break for him. "I meet interesting people, and I feel like I am helping by providing a service that wouldn't be available for them in the dental clinic," he said. He intends to continue working at the Dental Clinic Command "as long as there is still interest."
When he isn't spending time helping the Soldiers here locally, Becker keeps himself busy in Tucson. Becker also works one and a half days with his brother, William, at Becker and Becker PC, where they have been business partners for 41 years.
Together, the Becker brothers conduct extensive clinical research. "We have published over a hundred peer reviewed articles together on periodontics and dental implants. That is kind of our hobby," Becker said.
In his spare time, Becker enjoys exercising, traveling and reading. Becker is married to his wife Phillis and together they have two daughters, Beth and Amy.
"My biggest accomplishment is being trained in what I really like to do," said Becker. "I have served in the public sector of my profession for many years. I was director of the American Board of Periodontology for six years. I have done a lot of volunteer work in dentistry for many years."
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