About Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Holistic Pediatric Dental Care in Old Town Bluffton
Since 2014, we’ve been providing compassionate, holistic pediatric dental care to families throughout the Lowcountry. Founded by Dr. Shane Harpham, our practice is built on a simple belief: every child deserves dental care that supports their overall health and well-being—not just their teeth.
Our Story
Why We Do What We Do
How We Got Started
Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry opened in 2014 with a mission to change the way children experience dental care.
Dr. Shane wanted to create a practice where parents never had to choose between effective treatment and natural, safe materials—a place where children could feel comfortable, respected, and excited about taking care of their smiles.
Our Approach
What Makes Us Different
Traditional dentistry often focuses solely on fixing problems. We focus on prevention, education, and minimally invasive care. We use biocompatible materials, offer drill-free options, and invest in technology that keeps children safe and comfortable.
Our Philosophy: At Sea Smiles, we believe:
Prevention is powerful
Healthy habits start early, and we guide families every step of the way.
Materials matter
We use BPA-free, metal-free, and biocompatible materials because your child's mouth should support their health, not compromise it.
Every child deserves respect
We treat children as individuals, earn their trust, and make dental visits something to look forward to.
Gentle is effective
Many dental problems can be addressed without drilling, numbing, or causing anxiety.
Our Mission
Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry: Mission
To provide exceptional, holistic pediatric dental care that promotes lifelong health, builds confidence, and creates positive experiences, both locally and around the world through our non-profit, Sea Kids Smile Worldwide.
Meet Dr. Shane Harpham
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist | Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry | Owner & Founder
Dr. Shane Harpham is the owner and founder of Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. He is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, the highest level of training and expertise in pediatric dental care. In 2022, Dr. Shane served as President of the South Carolina Pediatric Dental.
Education & Training
- East Tennessee State University – Graduated with highest honors in biological sciences
- West Virginia University School of Dentistry – Recognized for outstanding treatment of patients with special needs
- Children’s Hospital of Michigan – Chief Resident in pediatric dentistry
Dr. Shane Harpham is the owner and founder of Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. He is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry the highest level of training and expertise in pediatric dental care. In 2022, Dr. Shane served as President of the South Carolina Pediatric Dental.
Beyond the Office
Dr. Shane is a devoted husband and father to three children: Calista, Caleb, and Capri. He and his wife are actively involved in their local church.
Sea Kids Smile Worldwide
Together with his wife, Dr. Shane founded Sea Kids Smile Worldwide, a non-profit providing dental care to children in need, both locally and globally.
In His Own Words:
“My goal is simple: help every child feel comfortable, confident, and excited about taking care of their smile.”
Meet Dr. Candace
Board-Eligible Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Candace brings warmth, enthusiasm, and exceptional clinical skills to Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry.
Education & Training
- Mercer University – Bachelor’s in Biology
- Dental College of Georgia – Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Pediatric Residency – Chief Resident at Dental College of Georgia
Dr. Shane Harpham is the owner and founder of Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. He is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry—the highest level of training and expertise in pediatric dental care. In 2022, Dr. Shane served as President of the South Carolina Pediatric Dental.
A Heart for Service
Dr. Candace participated in mission trips to Nicaragua and Peru, providing dental care to underserved communities.
Professional Memberships
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
- Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (SSPD)
Beyond the Office
Dr. Candace enjoys the beach, farmers markets, painting, traveling, and spending time with her dog, Frannie.
In Her Own Words:
“I believe every child deserves to be treated with compassion, respect, and a big smile. My goal is to make every visit a positive experience.”
Awards & Recognition
We’re honored to be recognized by our community and peers for our commitment to exceptional pediatric dental care.
Major Awards:
President of the South Carolina Academy of Pediatric Dentistry — 2022
Bluffton Small Business of the Year “Golden Oyster” Award
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Man of the Year — 2022 (Dr. Shane raised over $16,000)
Academy of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities Certificate of Recognition
Awards & Recognition
We’ve been honored to receive “Best Pediatric Dentist” and “Best Pediatric Dental Office” awards from our community for eight consecutive years:
2022 – Readers Choice Best Pediatric Dental Clinic, STS Best Pediatric Dental Office
2021 – BOB Best Pediatric Dentist, STS Best Pediatric Dentist, BOB Best Pediatric Dental Office
2020 – BOB Best Pediatric Dentist, BOB Best Pediatric Dental Office, STS Best
2019 – BOB Best Pediatric Dentist, STS Best Pediatric Dentist, Hilton Head Monthly Favorite
2018 – BOB Best Pediatric Dental Office, Island Packet Readers Choice
2017 – BOB Best Pediatric Dentist, Island Packet Readers Choice
2016 – Island Packet Readers Choice, STS Best, BOB Best
2015 – BOB Best Pediatric Dentist
Community Support
Giving Back to Our Community
At Sea Smiles, we’re proud members of the Bluffton community. Giving back is part of who we are.
Annual Events We Host
🎃 The Annual Candy Bounce Back Event – Halloween candy exchange for prizes; candy sent to troops overseas
🎅 The Annual Santa Meet & Greet Event – Free holiday celebration
🎄 Annual Angel Tree Donation – Gifts for children in need
🥫 Annual Food Drive – Supporting Bluffton Self Help
Community Events We Participate In
- Historic Bluffton Art & Seafood Festival
- Bluffton May Fest
- Annual Beaufort Water Festival
- The Habersham Harvest Festival
Youth Sports Sponsorships
We sponsor local youth sports and recreation teams, supporting physical health and teamwork.
Sea Kids Smile Worldwide
Through our non-profit, we provide dental care to underserved children both locally and internationally.
Ready to Meet Our Team?
We’d love to welcome you and your child to Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry.