About Us

The Voice of Organized Dentistry Along the Grand Strand

Representing general dentists, dental specialists, and practice teams across Horry and Georgetown counties, South Carolina.

Our Mission & Vision

Our mission is to support Grand Strand dental professionals through accredited continuing education, ethical advocacy, and collaborative fellowship, ensuring optimal oral health for our coastal communities. Our vision is a progressive and connected regional dental community committed to clinical innovation, patient care standards, and elevated public health.

Grand Strand Dental Society is a non-profit professional association representing general dentists, dental specialists, and practice teams across Horry and Georgetown counties in South Carolina. Operating as a component society of the South Carolina Dental Association (SCDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA), our organization serves as the local voice of organized dentistry in the Grand Strand region.

At a Glance

  • OrganizationGrand Strand Dental Society
  • EIN33-3802282
  • Tax Status501(c)(6) Business League / Regional Dental Society
  • ServingHorry & Georgetown Counties, South Carolina
  • LocationMyrtle Beach, SC 29572

Leadership

  • Principal OfficerDr. Tiffany Karkanen, DDS
  • State Society Affiliate Desk(803) 750-2277 — South Carolina Dental Association Line
  • Mailing Address8151 Rourk St
    Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
    United States
Core Focus Areas

What We Do for Members

Accredited Continuing Education (CE)

We sponsor clinical lectures, scientific seminars, and evening meetings featuring expert speakers, helping local practitioners fulfill state licensure requirements.

Professional Advocacy & Practice Support

In close alignment with the South Carolina Dental Association, we protect the doctor-patient relationship, monitor healthcare policies, and advocate for ethical practice standards.

Peer Collaboration & Case Review

Our society provides a collaborative forum for clinicians and specialists to evaluate complex cases, explore practice transitions, and build strong referral networks.

Community Literacy & Public Outreach

Our member dentists participate in school oral health programs, charitable care initiatives, and preventive campaigns to raise health literacy across Horry and Georgetown counties.

Member Support & Governance

Fiduciary Stewardship & Tripartite Representation

Grand Strand Dental Society manages all membership dues, event registration fees, and sponsorships with complete financial accountability to maximize educational value for members.

Tripartite Membership Integration

Our members benefit from unified representation at the local (Grand Strand), state (South Carolina Dental Association), and national (American Dental Association) levels.

New Practitioner Mentorship

We support early-career dentists establishing practices along the Grand Strand by providing local peer mentorship, practice transition guidance, and professional networking.

Governance

Governance & Executive Leadership

Grand Strand Dental Society is governed by an executive board of elected local dental professionals.

Executive Leadership

  • Principal OfficerDr. Tiffany Karkanen, DDS — President & Executive Lead, guiding society governance, educational programming, and regional advocacy
  • Executive CommitteeLocal practicing dentists managing treasury functions, CE logistics, and SCDA delegation
  • Component Desk8151 Rourk St, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 — Managing membership records, meeting rosters, and society correspondence

Tripartite Leadership

  • Local ComponentGrand Strand Dental Society
  • State OrganizationSouth Carolina Dental Association (SCDA)
  • National OrganizationAmerican Dental Association (ADA)
  • State Society Affiliate Desk(803) 750-2277

Get in touch

We're here to help. Reach out with any questions about Grand Strand Dental Society, our programs, or your account.

Contact Us