Updated on September 7, 2023

The Best Dentists in Columbia, SC

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Why trust us?

NewMouth is committed to connecting patients to the best local healthcare providers. We reviewed 102 dentists in Columbia, SC, and chose this list based on their:

  • Qualifications and education
  • Years of experience
  • Reputation and resources
  • Past customer experiences

We used AI technology to analyze 10323 reviews from Google, Yelp, and Facebook to find patients' favorite dentists in the area. Our team then went through and hand picked our list of the best dentists in Columbia.

8 Best Dentists in Columbia, SC

2020 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29204

South Carolina Dental Center

4.9 out of 5 (214 reviews)

2020 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29204

Summary

The South Carolina Dental Center receives consistent positive feedback for its welcoming staff. Patients highlight the friendliness and gentleness of the hygienists, especially Sylvia. Dr. Droege’s professional yet calming demeanor eases procedure anxiety. Their insurance assistance and efficiency provide a pleasant experience. Patients strongly recommend their attentive customer service.

Highlights

  • The staff is praised for being friendly, welcoming, and helping patients feel at ease.
  • Patients appreciate the expertise, professionalism, and care from the knowledgeable dentists, including Dr. Droege.
  • Clear communication about procedures, costs, and insurance ensures no surprises at checkout.

1310 Lady St suite 600, Columbia, SC 29201

Columbia Smiles

5 out of 5 (85 reviews)

1310 Lady St suite 600, Columbia, SC 29201

Summary

Columbia Smiles provides exceptional dental care in a welcoming environment. Their knowledgeable, enthusiastic staff offers comforting support and detailed, personalized services. Patients feel like family in their pleasant office with beautiful views and massage chairs. Dr. Nick leads a skilled team dedicated to positive experiences and top-notch care. Highly recommended for great dental care.

Highlights

  • Welcoming staff put patients at ease, including those with dental anxiety.
  • Beautiful, modern office with relaxing amenities like massage chairs.
  • State-of-the-art equipment for excellent dental care.

1821 Gadsden St, Columbia, SC 29201

Crescent Prosthodontics: Nicholas Ruggiero, DMD

4.9 out of 5 (61 reviews)

1821 Gadsden St, Columbia, SC 29201

Summary

Dr. Ruggerio provides excellent dental care with compassion and professionalism. Patients commend the expertise and friendliness of Dr. Ruggerio and staff, as well as their thorough and intelligent approach. The accommodating team puts patients at ease through their caring nature, earning confidence in treatments and gratitude for positive experiences.

Highlights

  • Expertise and compassion from Dr. Ruggerio and staff who provide excellent care.
  • Thorough and personalized treatment plans focused on patients’ unique needs and goals.
  • Professional, friendly staff praised for exceptional customer service in a warm environment.

2329 Devine St #1, Columbia, SC 29205

Shandon Family Dentistry

4.6 out of 5 (252 reviews)

2329 Devine St #1, Columbia, SC 29205

Summary

Dr. Desai’s Shandon Family Dentistry receives mostly positive reviews for professional, friendly care. Patients appreciate the attention to detail by Dr. Desai and assistant Alyse. A few negative reviews cite communication issues, condescending behavior and unnecessary procedures. In general, patients report good experiences.

Highlights

  • Friendly staff provide a welcoming atmosphere. Multiple reviewers praised Dr. Desai, Alyse, Kristie, and Chris for their friendliness, professionalism, and respectful treatment.
  • Efficient service values patients’ time. Several patients appreciated the short waiting times and quick attention to their dental needs.
  • While no medical practice is perfect, this office seems committed to a positive patient experience through their friendly and dedicated staff.

515 Richland St, Columbia, SC 29201

Vista Smiles

4.8 out of 5 (303 reviews)

515 Richland St, Columbia, SC 29201

Summary

Vista Smiles dental clinic was highly rated by patients for its caring and welcoming staff, skilled dentists and hygienists, personalized attention, professionalism, cleanliness, and ability to accommodate different budgets and insurance plans. Many felt relaxed and relieved after their visits. Patients strongly recommend Vista Smiles for all dental care needs.

Highlights

  • Dentists and staff praised for professionalism, friendliness, and caring approach
  • Short wait times and clear communication valued
  • Accommodating staff eases anxiety and provides comfortable experience

2329 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205

Carolina Dentistry

4.8 out of 5 (117 reviews)

2329 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205

Summary

Carolina Dentistry provides a warm, family-like atmosphere with courteous and diligent professionals who offer gentle, quality dental care. Patients appreciate the inviting office and attentive staff, who make visits pleasant.

Highlights

  • Caring Staff: Patients appreciate the personal, attentive service from Dr. Antley’s courteous team. Many feel like family.
  • Knowledgeable Experts: The dental staff is highly skilled, professional, and efficient in providing thorough care.
  • Comfortable Office: Patients feel at ease in the office’s welcoming environment.

2757 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29204

Barbee Dental LLC

4.6 out of 5 (99 reviews)

2757 Laurel St, Columbia, SC 29204

Summary

Dr. Barbee and staff offer professional, friendly service. Patients feel welcomed and cared for in the clean, comfortable office. Dr. Barbee explains procedures thoroughly and addresses concerns.

Highlights

  • The professional yet welcoming staff puts patients at ease during visits.
  • Dr. Barbee thoroughly explains treatments and patiently answers any questions.
  • With short wait times and a helpful team, the office provides excellent customer service.

529 Richland St, Columbia, SC 29201

Austin B Meares, DMD

4.9 out of 5 (65 reviews)

529 Richland St, Columbia, SC 29201

Summary

Dr. Meares provides excellent dental care with kindness and professionalism, taking time to explain procedures and address patient concerns. His friendly, accommodating staff receives high praise, though one reviewer cited mistakes by a receptionist. Overall, Dr. Meares is a top-notch dentist with a great team.

Highlights

  • Skilled, friendly staff provide excellent care and ensure patient comfort.
  • Dr. Meares crafts personalized treatment plans and patiently addresses concerns.
  • The office offers a welcoming, anxiety-free atmosphere focused on positive experiences.

Common Dental Procedures Their Costs

Dental Exams and Teeth Cleaning

Dental exams and teeth cleaning often go hand-in-hand during a dental visit. A dentist or hygienist will check on the general health of your oral cavity. This includes your teeth, gums, and tongue.

Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry focuses on children's oral health from infancy through the teen years. Treatments aim to maintain and improve dental health through a combination of services.

These include treating any existing dental issues in children. But pediatric dentistry also emphasizes education and preventative care. Proper brushing, flossing, nutrition, and dental sealants can help prevent issues like cavities.

Establishing these good habits early on is key. The goal is to set up a comprehensive routine focused on prevention. This helps ensure a healthy smile for years to come.

Cavity Fillings

Cavity fillings are used to treat minor tooth decay. Fillings prevent bacteria, food, and other debris from entering the tooth and progressing this decay. They can also repair teeth that are broken or worn down.

Root Canals

Root canals are necessary when the innermost layer of you tooth, the dental pulp, is severely damaged. This procedure involves cleaning out the infected pulp and sealing the tooth.

Gingivitis Treatment

Gingivitis treatments can involve scaling and root planing. This involves scraping tartar buildup along the gums and smoothing the teeth’s surfaces.

Treatment can also involve regular dental checkups and readjusting poorly fitted dental devices like braces or dentures.

Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy treats gum disease, from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. The goal is to thoroughly clean around teeth and stop disease progression. This helps maintain natural teeth and gum health.

In early stages, careful plaque and tartar removal may be enough. Advanced disease may need surgical interventions to restore bone and tissue support. Ongoing care is important to halt further gum damage.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a kind of cosmetic treatment for discolored teeth. It involves hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal is necessary when the wisdom tooth doesn’t have space to erupt properly. An improper eruption can lead to infection or an impacted tooth. This means the tooth grows in partially.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatments help prevent tooth decay. These treatments can be done professionally or at home. They’re also available in toothpaste, foams, gels, and mouthwashes.

X-Rays

Dental X-rays give dentists and hygienists a comprehensive look at your oral cavity’s health. They can check your teeth, roots, jaw placement, and facial bone structure. These are necessary to give you a comprehensive treatment plan.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea treatments come in different forms. Dentists can recommend weight loss, using a wedge pillow, breathing strips, or mouthguards.

PAP therapy is another common sleep apnea treatment. Some people may need surgery to treat their condition.

Tooth Sealants

Tooth sealants prevent food particles, bacteria, acid, and other substances from damaging the tooth and causing cavities. They’re commonly applied to permanent teeth that haven’t had cavities yet.

Fluoride's Role in South Carolina's Dental Health

Fluoride Statistics in South Carolina

Fluoride, essential for dental health, is widely used in South Carolina. Here's a snapshot of its impact:

Dental Schools in Columbia, SC

Local dental schools offer affordable and sliding-scale oral health services. Connect with academic clinics providing supervised, reduced-cost care to uninsured patients.

Columbia Dental Health Clinic

212 Outlet Pointe blvd Columbia, SC 29210

The Women’s Shelter Dental Clinic

3425 N Main St Columbia, SC 29201

Eau Claire Cooperative HC, Inc.

Columbia, SC 29203

Services Offered
Services Offered

Exams and X-Rays Cleanings Sealants Restorations

South Carolina Primary Health Care Association

Columbia, SC 29223

Richland Community Health Care Assn

Eastover, SC 29044

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