A Happy Veteran’s Day: Dentist Gives Vet a New Smile

Patrick Eidukot, a U.S. Army veteran, has been given a new smile in time for Veteran’s Day from Dr. Matt Byars, pro bono, in appreciation for his service. Dr. Byars, a Navy veteran, assembled a generous team that included anesthesiologist Steve Lanners (a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves) and, with donated implants and fabrication from Neodent and Done in One, Patrick has healthy and gorgeous new teeth.

For Patrick, it means so much more than the cosmetic improvements as he has not had solid food for almost eight years. His service in Afghanistan left him with a condition that does not allow him to swallow normally. Years on nutrient-poor diets and lack of solid food caused rapid tooth decay, pain and infections in his mouth in addition to a 110 lb. weight loss. Dr. Byars heard Patrick’s story and knew he could help - in the 10 days since getting his teeth, Patrick has already gained weight.

Though Patrick will need to continue to eat soft food, the new teeth means he no longer has to remain on a liquid diet. Before the dental work, Patrick didn’t smile. Now he is learning to smile again and says that what Dr. Byars has done for him is life changing.

When asked if he would have enlisted in the Army if he knew he would have to face the pain of the last eight years, he said “Yes. Serving in the military is one of the best decisions I have made in my life. The people I worked with there are like family, and the experience is something I will remember and honor always.”