College of Dentistry opens new clinic at med center

The UNMC College of Dentistry on Monday cut the ribbon on a $2.6 million renovation of their Omaha dental clinic at the Durham Outpatient Center.

“The proximity of this clinic to our clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, sets a new standard for care as it allows us to provide for the oral health care needs of patients,” said Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.

The complete facility renovation expands the dental clinic from seven dental chairs to 15, adds multipurpose rooms for special procedures, updates all the dental operatories, adds a conference room and updates the sterilization lab, reception area and support spaces.

“This renovation allows the clinic to now serve as a rotation site for our dental students and dental hygiene students who are able to come alongside and learn and serve the citizens of this area and beyond,” said Janet Guthmiller, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the UNMC College of Dentistry.

Jay Hansen, D.D.S., director of advanced education in general dentistry, Kathleen Ausman, D.D.S., director of general practice residency, and Amir Farhangpour, D.D.S., assistant dean for Omaha Clinics, Omaha, joined Drs. Gold and Guthmiller in cutting the ribbon, officially marking the completion.

The growth of the dental clinic allows the College of Dentistry to increase the number of patients they serve, as well as accommodate a new residency program, Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD), headed by Dr. Hansen, and current General Practice Residency Program, headed by Dr. Ausman.

Speaking to attendees, Dr. Hansen pointed to the facility’s comfortable environment for patients, more efficient flow for patient management and care, and accessibility for patients with compromised mobility and complex medical conditions.