Dental care is one of the most common types of healthcare people skip when money is tight — and one of the most expensive to put off. A simple cleaning prevents problems that, if left untreated, can lead to root canals, infections, or emergency room visits. If you live in Horry County and need affordable dental care, you have more options than you might realize. This guide breaks them down.
| Quick answer
Little River Medical Center offers full-service dental care at multiple locations in Horry County, with a sliding-fee application that adjusts costs based on household income. We also operate Miles for Smiles, a mobile dental program that brings care directly into the community. |
Why dental care matters more than you think
Untreated dental problems don’t stay in your mouth. They’re linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, pregnancy complications, and infections that can become serious. Regular cleanings and exams catch problems early, when they’re cheaper and easier to treat. For children, early dental visits set the foundation for lifelong oral health and can prevent painful issues that affect eating, sleep, and school performance.
Affordable dental care options in Horry County
1. Community health centers with sliding fee dental
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) like Little River Medical Center provide full dental services — cleanings, exams, fillings, extractions, and more — on a sliding fee scale. That means the price of your visit is based on your household size and income. Many patients pay a small fraction of what a private dental office would charge.
LRMC offers dental care at multiple locations across Horry County, including Aynor, Carolina Forest, Little River, Loris, and Myrtle Beach. To apply for reduced rates, submit a sliding fee application at your first visit — you’ll need proof of household income from the last 30 days.
2. Medicaid dental coverage
Children covered by South Carolina Medicaid (Healthy Connections) receive comprehensive dental benefits, including preventive care, cleanings, fillings, and other treatment. Adult dental coverage under SC Medicaid is more limited, and benefits can change. If you’re unsure what your plan covers, our team can help — call any of our locations or request affordable enrollment assistance.
3. Miles for Smiles mobile dental program
Miles for Smiles is LRMC’s mobile dental program — a fully equipped dental office on wheels. It travels to schools and community sites throughout Horry County to provide cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, sealants, and basic treatment, often at low or no cost depending on eligibility. This program is especially helpful for children whose families have trouble getting time off work or transportation to a dentist’s office.
4. Dental schools and university dental programs
Dental hygiene programs at community colleges sometimes offer reduced-cost cleanings performed by students under faculty supervision. These can be a good option for routine cleanings, but availability and services vary. Call ahead to ask what they offer and whether they’re accepting patients.
5. Charitable dental events
The South Carolina Dental Association and other organizations occasionally host free dental events, sometimes called “Dental Access Days” or “Mission of Mercy”. These are first-come, first-served and typically focus on extractions and urgent care. They can fill a gap, but aren’t a substitute for ongoing dental care.
What does a sliding-fee dental visit actually cost?
Sliding fee rates vary based on your household income relative to the federal poverty guidelines. Patients at the lowest income levels typically pay a small nominal fee per visit, while those at higher income levels pay a larger share. Either way, sliding fee rates are substantially lower than standard out-of-pocket prices at private dental offices. The front desk at any LRMC location can walk you through your specific fee.
What if I have a dental emergency?
If you have severe pain, swelling, a knocked-out tooth, or signs of infection, such as fever or facial swelling, you need care promptly. Call your dental provider as soon as possible. If you can’t be seen the same day and your symptoms are serious, urgent care or the emergency room can manage pain and infection — but they generally can’t fix the underlying dental problem. After the immediate issue is treated, schedule a dental follow-up to address the cause.
| Don’t wait for it to get worse
If cost has been the reason you’ve put off dental care, the sliding fee scale exists exactly for this. Schedule an appointment at the nearest location with dental services, and ask about applying for a sliding fee at the same visit. |
How to get started with affordable dental care
- Find the location nearest you that offers dental services.
- Schedule an appointment — let the front desk know if you need a new patient visit.
- Gather a photo ID, insurance card if you have one, and proof of household income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, tax return, or unemployment statement).
- At your visit, submit a sliding fee application if you don’t have insurance or are underinsured.
- Ask about enrollment assistance if you may qualify for Medicaid or other coverage — applying takes about 30 minutes with a counselor.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicaid cover dental care for adults in South Carolina?
Adult dental coverage under SC Medicaid is limited, while children receive comprehensive dental benefits. Coverage rules can change, so confirm with your plan or ask an enrollment counselor for the latest.
Can I get affordable dental care in Horry County?
Children on Medicaid receive dental care at no cost. Adults without insurance can apply for a sliding fee scale, which significantly reduces the cost based on income. The Miles for Smiles program also provides low- or no-cost care to children at participating community sites and schools.
What if I need a procedure that isn’t covered?
Your dental provider will explain your options upfront, including what’s covered, what isn’t, and any available payment plans. Cost should never be a surprise.
Do you accept walk-ins for dental care?
Appointments are recommended, but same-day visits may be available for urgent needs. Call the dental location nearest you to ask about availability.
Which LRMC locations offer dental services?
Dental care is available at multiple LRMC health centers across Horry County. Visit our locations page for the most current information, or call ahead to confirm dental availability at a specific site.
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
