The LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry is receiving a $100 million renovation. Dean of the school, John Gallo, says the project will modernize a facility built over 50 years ago.
“Update our patient treatment areas so that our patients get the best treatment possible, in a very nice environment. And our students, while they’re learning how to treat the patients, they’re learning in the best environment,” Gallo said.
The LSU dental school serves over 450 students, from advanced education students to dental hygienists. Gallo says these students will enjoy state-of-the-art classrooms.
“A lot of what they do before they work on patients happens in a pre-clinical laboratory situation. So we need the most modern simulation technology also, which enhances their education,” Gallo explained.
Gallo says the vast majority of funding was awarded by the Louisiana State Legislature. He says lawmakers invested in the future of Louisiana dentistry.
“LSU is the only dental school in the state. If you go to a dentist in Louisiana, there’s a 75%-80% chance you’re going to see an LSU dentist,” Gallo noted.