Participation in ROTC programs as an undergraduate student may increase the entrance salary. Tax free allowances for housing and meals are included in that salary. Bonus pay is awarded to active duty officers after one year of service. The bonus pay may vary from year to year based on manpower needs. Increases are given automatically every two years and with each promotion.
Promotion is competitive, based upon performance and longevity.
Officers with prior commisioned service, private practice or other qualifiying education and experience may attain promotion earlier. The commissioning of dentists in the military is most likely to continue at its present rate. Individual future goals for the military dentist include advancement through the ranks.