- Dental ExaminationMany patients are surprised at the large amount of surface area that we examine during an oral exam. At every hygiene visit, we examine all the tissues of your mouth including gums, cheeks, lips, tongue, and jaw. It is just as important to have regular soft tissue screenings as it is to have a professional dental cleaning.
- X-rays
- Oral Cancer ScreeningWe ask that you reserve about an hour for your first visit. This will allow your general dentist, Dr. Hortman, to complete a thorough exam including a periodontal analysis and oral cancer screening. Our chairside patient education system will enable us to show you areas of concern. We can even give you a digital tour of your mouth.
- Teeth Cleaning
- Fluoride TreatmentAlthough most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons...
- Dental SealantsA sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.
- FillingsCavities and small fractures can cause much larger issues if left untreated. In the past, metal restorations called amalgam fillings (or silver fillings) served a need but left many teeth discolored and strained from the wedging effect of the metal. Today, tooth-colored composite resins blend into the tooth structure and are chemically bonded to the tooth providing a strong, permanent restoration.
- Resin CompositeBonding is a cosmetic procedure that allows the dentist to reshape or repair your smile using composite resin. Cosmetic bonding is particularly ideal if you’re insecure about the appearance of your smile or want an affordable alternative to invasive and more costly procedures such as orthodontics or veneers. With bonding, chipped or uneven teeth can be repaired easily and affordably, restoring your self-confidence. Additionally, bonding is often completed in a single visit and doesn’t require any anesthetic!Â
- VeneersF you have chipped, cracked, worn-down, or badly stained teeth, Dr. Emily Hortman may recommend dental veneers in Little River, SC and North Myrtle Beach.  Each veneer is a custom-made porcelain shell  designed to fit over your most visible teeth, concealing cosmetic flaws and providing a flattering smile aesthetic. The shade of the veneer, along with its shape and size will be made to match your surrounding teeth so that it blends in perfectly. We encourage you to contact our experienced Little River porcelain veneer dentist  today to learn more and to schedule a consultation.
- CrownsMost dentistry looks like dentistry. Our goal is to provide dentistry that is undetectable. We replace existing dental crowns and fillings with restorations that look and feel like your natural teeth. We are renowned for the quality of our work and the fantastic changes we make for people using this technology. These treatments are used for a long-lasting correction of major dental problems. It is usual for these treatments to last for 20 to 30 years, which is as close to permanent as dental treatment can get.
- BridgesCrown and bridgework is a very reliable solution for major dental problems caused through accidents, diseases or wear and tear. Major problems can usually be corrected using these techniques. Material used in these repairs is either high-grade porcelain. A higher strength of the porcelain materials is recommended to treat the most serious of dental problems. Where accidental damage has occurred, resulting in lost teeth, or where teeth have broken away through excessive wear, or as the result of old fillings breaking, dental crowns and/or dental bridges can be used as a long-term solution.
- Dental BondingYour treatment plan will be designed based on your unique case. Our doctor may recommend Sapphire teeth whitening, Lumineers, cosmetic bonding, or a combination of treatments. Take a moment to explore our cosmetic services and learn how Dr. Hortman helps change lives with the power of modern cosmetic dentistry.
- Root Canal TreatmentIf a tooth has a severe infection, then it might be necessary to clean out the root so that the infection can be eliminated. As a comprehensive dental care provider, Palmetto Dental Associates provides root canal therapy to residents of Little River, North Myrtle Beach, and surrounding communities. A Little River root canal treatment  can be used to save the tooth, giving you the option to protect your natural smile for many years. With advanced training and state of the art equipment, Dr. Hortman makes endodontic therapy  a much more streamlined and enjoyable experience for patients.
- DenturesNearly 30% of people over the age of 75 have lost all of their teeth. That makes 45 million denture-wearing Americans. Dental science has advanced to meet the growing demand, and today, we have beautiful, durable dentures and partials that last. Our dental team provides affordable full and partial dentures in Little River and helps patients understand the benefits of permanent dentures.
- Dental ImplantsDental implants are quickly becoming the preferred method of replacing missing teeth. Based on modern biological findings, dental implants are the most natural way to restore a smile to optimal health and function. With extensive experience experience and advanced equipment, Dr. Emily Hortman has been recognized as a leading provider of high quality dental implant restoration to residents of Little River, North Myrtle Beach, and and the surrounding communities.Â
- Orthodontics
- Invisalign OrthodonticsOne of the biggest benefits of Invisalign aligners besides being nearly invisible is their removability. Invisalign aligners are designed to be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. You’ll never have to worry about anything getting stuck in your brackets and wires. You will also remove them before brushing and flossing. This makes it’s much easier to keep your teeth clean. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy is especially important for orthodontic patients.
- BracesWhen you are looking for a discreet way to straighten your teeth, Invisalign has become a popular option in Little River, SC.  With the assistance of our Invisalign® Provider, Dr. Emily Hortman, Little River dental patients are enjoying straighter teeth and a healthier bite. Invisalign is an innovative alternative to traditional metal braces, using custom-crafted, form-fitting dental trays. They offer a completely clear-colored and removable solution to a more beautiful smile and a more confident you. At our dental practice we are proud to have Dr. Hortman, who has been recognized as a leading Invisalign provider in Little River / North Myrtle Beach and continues to correct smiles for patients who choose this alternative clear aligner procedure. Â
- Teeth WhiteningThere are several types of teeth bleaching that you can try. People typically start by using whitening toothpaste at home. This can help to brighten your teeth but is typically not enough to actually whiten them. We recommend toothpaste as part of an overall teeth whitening treatment but not by itself. After professional whitening, the toothpaste can help your teeth stay bright.
- Cosmetic DentistryAccording to a recent study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, an attractive smile can make a person appear more successful, friendly, and intelligent. As a Little River cosmetic dentist, Dr. Hortman can design a stunning smile that will not only look great, but function great as well. We combine the art and science of modern dentistry to deliver the results you desire.
- General DentistryDr. Hortman is sensitive to children, fearful patients, and patients with special needs. If you or someone you know need general dentistry performed in a safe, comfortable, patient-focused environment, call Palmetto Dental Associates. We’ve provided Little River and North Myrtle Beach residents with comprehensive cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry since 1987.