Nellis dentists offer free smiles Published Jan. 18, 2012 By Ben Newell Nellis Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- February is all about teeth for members of the 99th Medical Operations Dental Squadron. In addition to being dubbed dental Health Month, approximately 12 dentists, technicians and hygienists will get the chance to work with underprivileged children in the Las Vegas area. Maj. (Dr.) Amy Dyer, 99th Dental Squadron pediatric dentist, spends most of her days ensuring military member's children have spic-and-span smiles. Feb. 11, 2012, will afford her the opportunity to work with Southern Nevada children who may have never seen a dentist. "In one day, we can see more than 100 children who are under served," said Dyer. "Our dentists and technicians are able to work on serious problems they don't often see, and the families of the kids get to take advantage of free dental care, which can change their life." Hosted at University of Las Vegas' dental training facilities, approximately 90 chairs are used for an all-day mandible-repairing marathon. Children with serious problems which cannot be fixed in a day are often referred to area dentists who donate their time and resources for free or almost-free dental care. Nellis dental professionals join forces with dental students at UNLV and area dental staffs from throughout Southern Nevada to target under served populations. "Along with the actual dentists and technicians, we often send in volunteer military dependents who help escort kids, organize the event and work with families," said Dr. Sterling Whipple, 99th Dental Squadron chief of the endodontic element. "It's an all-in effort for us." To ensure long term effects, many families receive counseling and advice on hygiene and dietary habits that can help extend the life of teeth enamel and ward off cavities. "The Southern Nevada Dental Society sees this as a great way to work with the public and share expertise among dental professionals from throughout the area," said Bob Anderson, SNDS executive director. "It's just great that we can tap the resources at Nellis [Air Force Base, Nev.] and work to help the area's residents."
