99th Dental clinic gets modernized Published March 4, 2013 By Senior Airman Matthew Lancaster 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The 99th Dental Clinic patient treatment rooms at the Mike O'Callaghan Federal Medical Center will be undergoing renovation from Feb. 25 through Mar. 25, 2013. The renovation project will upgrade the clinic's cabinets, supply carts, computer desks and provide a fresh coat of paint. There will be more space to store equipment so dentists and technicians have everything they need to take care of the patients. It will also be more sanitary and easier to clean. The total cost of the renovation project is $468,000. "We had to replace our cabinetry and drawers that were breaking down and beyond repair," said Col. (Dr.) John Safar, 99th Dental Squadron residency director. "This was our window of opportunity to get new cabinets so we have a modern clinic for our residents and patients." "If budget permits there may be a phase three for more upgrades," Safar said. We want to try to renovate the mini supply rooms and get new dental treatment chairs. I was a patient the other day and I can tell you that those chairs are old and not as comfortable as they could be." The renovation will not affect operations at the clinic. Dentists and technicians will be split into two shifts to be able to accommodate all incoming patients. "Luckily we don't have to shut down the clinic for a month. The split shifts will help make sure we have the same amount of appointments as normal," Safar said. "We are going to try to see all the exams, so no one gets left behind. Obviously, if it's very simple procedure then we may have to hold off and save the slot for more in depth procedures. Our first priorities are Class 3 patients who need immediate dental care, our deployment and flight exam members and molar oral surgeries." "There are a lot of people involved with this project and it has been a huge planning effort," Safar said. "I'm glad that we are going to get it done soon."