I have been a dentist since 1994 and I absolutely love it! I love the technicality of the 'hands on' aspect as well as the wonderful relationships with my patients. I get great joy and satisfaction in helping my patients achieve optimal oral health as well as a beautiful smile. There is no greater accomplishment than to provide a patient with a smile they can be proud to share with the world.
I decided to become a dentist in high school. My grandmother would tell you that when posed the question as a child, 'what do you want to be when you grow up', I answered 'a dentist'. I suppose dentistry has been a passion in my heart even before my mind was positive.
I began my education at The College of Charleston due to its proximity and slight affiliation to the Medical University of South Carolina and the dental school there. I received a Bachelor of Science with a minor in Psychology. I then took a two year break to rejuvenate prior to entering dental school. I became a graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina School of Dentistry in 1994. It was at that time that I had the pleasure of experiencing life outside of South Carolina as I completed a residency at the University of Alabama Birmingham .
Upon completion of my residency, I took six months to stay home as I had given birth to my first son, Thomas, during my residency and had not had time to just be a mom. I then practiced for six months in Charleston before my family and I moved to Columbia to gain our lives. I desired to be in a part of an established practice that could teach me dentistry beyond a simple filling or crown. I wanted to know the business end of dentistry as well. I was not comfortable beginning practice on my own until I had this opportunity. It was during this time that we welcomed the birth of my second son, Sean. I then felt prepared to begin my own practice.
I have been at my Millwood location since 2000. I have a wonderful team that is just as devoted to welcoming patients into our 'family' as I am. We all take a genuine interest in our patients beyond dentistry. We strive, as a team, to provide our patients with the best dental health possible. A beautiful smile on a patients face is immensely rewarding to all of us.
Wow! What a fortunate person I am. I married my high school sweetheart in October of 2002. In June 2008 we welcomed our son Parker, and in April of 2011 our daughter Abby Grace completed our family. I remember growing up wanting that 'perfect career'. I saw myself making an impact and changing lives. I have found that in my career as a dental assistant. I graduated from Midlands Technical College in 2002 as a Certified Dental Assistant. I was an assistant for a local prosthodontist for 2 years before being fortunate enough to join Dr. O 'Neill 's team in 2004.
I've been a part of changing patients lives ever since. I've seen so many patients walk into our office ashamed to smile, and when their dental work is complete it is as if another person took their place. The patients have found the happiness and self-confidence they had been seeking for years.
My name is Kelly, I have lived in SC my entire life. My family is my pride and joy, but dentistry is an exciting part of my life. In 2007 I graduated from Midlands technical college as a Certified Dental Assistant. It was at this time that I began working for Dr. O'Neill, and instantly felt right at home. In 2011 I graduated with an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene. I enjoy working with such a close group of ladies, and all of our amazing patients. I love my job and am fortunate to have found a dentist and coworkers who share in my excitement and commitment to our patients.
