A construction company has been awarded a $3.8 million contract to build a new public dental clinic for Great Falls College Montana State University, reports the Great Falls Tribune.
The project is slated to be completed at the beginning of the 2021-22 school year and will allow the college to admit 25 dental hygiene students each year instead of 18, which will help improve a statewide hygienist shortage.
"The dental hygiene program is the only one in the state of Montana, and we are proud to expand our capacity in a time of such uncertainty," said Susan Wolff, university CEO and dean.
The 2019 Montana Legislature approved $4.25 million for the project, which will expand the dental clinic from 6,000 to 17,000 square feet.
The expansion will also:
- Increase the number of operatories from 16 to 25 and increase the square footage of each operatory.
- Provide a centralized sterilization station and layout more consistent with a dental office.
- Expand lab space and capabilities.
- Enhance patient privacy and comfort with a spacious reception area that will also serve as a study space for students.