Our Team
At Surfside Smiles, our team is the heart of our practice. We’re proud to offer gentle dental care delivered with skill, compassion, and a personal touch. From your very first visit, you’ll be welcomed by friendly faces who are genuinely committed to your comfort, your health, and your confidence.
Whether you’re here for a routine cleaning or a dental emergency, we take the time to listen, explain, and ensure you feel at ease every step of the way. Our goal is simple: to make every visit stress-free and every smile a little brighter.
Come see why families in Surfside Beach trust our team for exceptional, patient-centered care.
Dr. Alexis Patel
Dentist
Dr. Alexis Patel is a proud Lowcountry native dedicated to serving her community with compassionate, comprehensive dental care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Wildlife & Fisheries Biology from Clemson University before completing her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree at the Medical University of South Carolina.
Dr. Patel is passionate about patient education and believes that informed patients are empowered to make the best decisions for their oral health. Her approach to dentistry focuses on creating a gentle, comfortable experience while always keeping her patients’ best interests at heart.
She provides a wide range of dental services, including restorative fillings, crowns and bridges, root canals, extractions, dentures, and more. A strong believer in lifelong learning, Dr. Patel stays current with advancements in dentistry through continuing education and is an active member of the South Carolina Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Outside the office, Dr. Patel enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, friends, and her Labrador retriever, Red.
Bailey Deas
Registered Dental Hygienist
Bailey Deas was born in Asheville, NC and raised between Hickory, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC. A proud South Carolina resident since 2010, she graduated from Socastee High School and The Academy for the Arts, Science, and Technology, where she focused on pre-medicine. She went on to earn her Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from Horry Georgetown Technical College and has been serving the Grand Strand community since 2019.
As our hygienist, Bailey is passionate about delivering high-quality patient care with a focus on comfort, education, and long-term oral health. She believes in working closely with each patient—through every stage of life—to prevent dental and periodontal issues before they begin.
Bailey brings experience working with special needs patients, children of all ages, seniors, and members of the Spanish-speaking community.
Outside the office, Bailey enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and their rat terrier, Minerva. Her hobbies include watercolor painting, weightlifting, salt and freshwater fishing, kayaking, and practicing yoga.
Kathy Terrell
Patient Coordinator
Born in Georgetown, SC and raised along the beautiful Grand Strand, Kathy has deep roots in the community and a passion for helping others feel at home. With over 20 years of experience in dentistry, she brings warmth and expertise to every patient interaction. Whether you’re calling the office or walking through our doors, Kathy will be the friendly face—or voice—greeting you and ensuring your visit is smooth and enjoyable.
“The best part of my job is meeting new people every day and helping them feel comfortable while they’re here,” she says.
Outside the office, Kathy enjoys traveling, horseback riding, and bike rides. A devoted Mickey Mouse fan, she also loves spending her free time soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches with her friends and family.
Ginger Johnson
Patient Coordinator / Dental Assistant
A Columbia, SC native, Ginger Johnson has proudly served the communities of Richland and Horry counties for nearly 20 years. She began her dental career through on-the-job training and completed her education at Midlands Technical College, becoming an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant. Over the years, Ginger has gained valuable experience both chairside and in dental administration.
Outside of work, Ginger enjoys her Bible education work and cherishes time with her husband, Corey, along with their family and friends.
At Surfside Smiles, Ginger is often the first friendly face you’ll see at the front desk alongside Kathy—but don’t be surprised if you also spot her assisting Dr. Alexis Patel chairside from time to time. Her versatility and dedication make her an essential part of our team!
Renee Thorpe
Dental Assistant
Originally from the heart of Ohio (O H!), Renee has spent the last 10 years bringing her warm Midwestern charm to the South. With over 20 years of experience in the dental field, she has built a career rooted in one simple passion: helping others, one tooth at a time.
Known for her deep knowledge, gentle touch, and calming presence, Renee goes above and beyond to make patients feel at ease. Whether she is easing dental anxiety or celebrating small victories with her patients, she focuses on creating smiles that last a lifetime.
Outside of work, Renee enjoys the outdoors, biking, spending time with family, and cuddling with her two beloved fur babies. Her compassion, dedication, and positive energy make her a valued part of the Surfside Smiles family.
Our Staff
At Surfside Smiles, our staff is committed to providing gentle dental care for the whole family in Surfside Beach. We understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful for some, which is why our team goes the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and positive experience for every patient.
Our skilled and compassionate professionals specialize in gentle, patient-focused dentistry, delivering personalized treatments that meet the unique needs of each individual. We take the time to communicate clearly, answer questions, and help you feel confident about your dental health.
From the front desk to the treatment rooms, our staff is dedicated to making your visit smooth and stress-free. Whether you need a routine checkup, cosmetic enhancements, or restorative treatments, you can trust the team at Surfside Smiles to provide the highest level of care.
