Exceptional Dental Care in Kershaw, SC
501 N Matson St, Kershaw, SC 29067
Welcome to Bela Family Dentistry of Kershaw, where small-town charm meets exceptional dental care. Nestled in the heart of Kershaw, SC—a community known for its rich history, friendly neighbors, and beautiful outdoor spaces like Stevens Park—we take pride in providing personalized, patient-focused dentistry. Whether you’re enjoying local events, exploring the scenic surroundings, or simply spending time with family and friends, a healthy, confident smile is always in season. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering high-quality care in a welcoming environment, ensuring you feel comfortable, valued, and ready to share your best smile with the community
Every time I walk through the doors, I am met with kindness, professionalism, and genuine care—and I leave feeling thankful and well cared for. Today was no exception. I literally walked out giving God praise for these wonderful people.
From the moment you arrive, you are greeted with the warmest smile by the receptionist, Ms. Blair. Her pleasant personality, professionalism, and contagious smile immediately put you at ease. She is always friendly, attentive, and patient, answering every question with sincerity, concern, and care.
The dental care I received from my hygienists, Ms. Jaclyn and Ms. Kelly, was truly exceptional. They took the time to listen to my concerns and made me feel as though I was the only patient in the office. They ensured my comfort at every step and addressed all of my questions with compassion and expertise. Ms. Jaclyn was absolutely amazing, and Ms. Kelly was nothing short of phenomenal.
Last, but certainly not least, Dr. Cornelius is simply outstanding. The level of concern, patience, and attentiveness she has shown throughout my dental care journey has been remarkable. She took the time to thoroughly explain my treatment options and thoughtfully laid out a plan for my dental care moving forward. Her genuine compassion, professionalism, and willingness to listen truly set her apart.
It is rare to find a dental practice where every team member consistently demonstrates such excellence, warmth, and genuine care for their patients. Dr. Cornelius and her staff go above and beyond, and it truly shows. I highly recommend Bella Dentistry of Kershaw to anyone seeking exceptional dental care in a welcoming and faith-filled environment.
Once I went to the back Jacqueline made me feel welcomed and gave me great feedback on my teeth and the direction she felt I needed to go. She was very pleasant and at the same time very professional.
Even when walking in the wrong door, they came outside to help us enter. They were very concerned, making sure we were both comfortable (I was with my son). Very patient when explaining the procedures for the upcoming dental plan and answering every question and answering patiently multiple times!
Thanks for making me feel comfortable & welcome.
Meet John Howell, DMD
Dr. Howell, an experienced and compassionate general dentist, has been the primary practitioner of 114 Kershaw Dental since 1975. Growing up in Williston, South Carolina, Dr. Howell has deep ties to the state. After completing his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Clemson University in 1970, he then went on to obtain his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1974. He was awarded Presidents List for Smile Train, an organization that provides corrective surgery for children with cleft palates.
Meeting the community’s needs for oral health is Dr. Howell’s number one priority. He feels this is done through an acute understanding of the patient’s wants and needs, supported by his experience and knowledge. His love of cosmetic and restorative dentistry led him to become certified in CAD/CAM technology, allowing him the ability to design and deliver crowns in one appointment. Dr. Howell serves as an evaluator for Dr. Gordon Christensen, which he attributes to staying current with the latest dental products. He loves any opportunity to help patients eager to improve their smile, or simply looking to maintain optimum oral health.
When asked what he likes most about practicing in Kershaw, “Being in a small town you are able to develop a special rapport, which allows you to deliver an exceptional patient experience.”
Dr. Howell is married with two daughters, and four grandsons. In his leisure time he enjoys sporting clays, and working with his springer spaniel, Rudy.
Meet Joanna Cornelius, DMD
Dr. Joanna Cornelius, a passionate and committed general dentist, has been in practice with Bela Dentistry of Kershaw since 2015. Originally from Saginaw, Michigan, Dr. Cornelius moved to Bluffton, South Carolina, with her family in 2004 and has spent more than half of her life in the South. After completing her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Coastal Carolina University, she went on to obtain her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina.
For the past decade, Dr. Cornelius has dedicated herself to evolving her knowledge and has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education in order to provide the most progressive and all-encompassing treatment to her patients. Areas in which she has expertise include, clear aligner therapy (invisible ortho), full mouth rehabilitation, restorative implant dentistry, temporomandibular joint therapy, and aesthetic dentistry. One of her greatest passions is facial esthetics, Dr. Cornelius has been certified as a master injector by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. These services include botulinum toxin treatment for migraines and esthetics, dermal fillers for the entire face, and PDO thread treatments. Dr. Cornelius brings a fresh, innovative perspective to the forever changing and evolving world of general dentistry and is devoted to providing her patients with the most advanced and appropriate solutions. It is Dr. Cornelius’ belief that every patient should be treated individually, by first evaluating their total health and then creating a plan tailored to their own specific goals.
Dr. Cornelius has fully embraced southern culture and the south’s strong familial and community values, and she has built strong professional and personal ties with the state of South Carolina. When asked what she likes most about practicing in Kershaw, she responded, “working in a town like Kershaw reminds me that dentistry is more than just fixing teeth. It is about building relationships with people and letting them know that their health and wellbeing is my number one priority. I am grateful that not only the staff, but also the town of Kershaw has allowed me to be a part of something very special which Dr. Howell has built over the last 40 years.”
Outside of work, Dr. Cornelius enjoys cooking, fishing, golfing, visiting the Carolina beaches, and playing with her two Pugs, Dudley and Penny.
Meet Daniel G. Hill, DDS, FICIO, FAAIP
Dr. Daniel G. Hill moved to South Carolina from Colorado. He, his wife Kelly, and their son Nick, 25, moved to South Carolina for warmer weather and southern charm. His oldest child Cassandra, 27, is living in California going to university and working. Though born in Canada, Dr. Hill moved to the United States in 1976 at the age of 13. He made his home in Colorado till his recent move to South Carolina.
While in Colorado he attended Metropolitan State University for a degree in Chemistry. He was then accepted and began dental school at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. CU is one of the most prestigious Dental Schools in the country as the class size is limited to 32, reserved for the top academic candidates. After graduation Dr. Hill had several offers to attend specialty programs, but declined those as he felt it should be the best and the brightest of graduates that become General Dentists.
His first practice was in Lakewood, CO where he practiced for 8 years. During that period, he became a member of some of dentistry’s most elite continuing education organizations and academies. Holding memberships in the Denver Academy of Restoration Dentistry, Academy of Operative Dentistry, Clinical Research Foundation, and others. Dr. Hill describes those organizations and the work done in continuing education as “the best foundation a new dentist could hope for.” Dr. Hill sees himself as a “lifelong learner” and is always eager to expand his skills and knowledge in his craft.
Our Kershaw Team
Kiandra H
Practice Manager
Kelly B
Dental Assistant
Elizabeth R
Dental Assistant
Jennifer T
Patient Advocate
Ashley H
Patient Advocate
Brooke B
Hygiene Therapist
Jaclyn H
Hygiene Therapist
Lynn A
Hygiene Therapist
Jorgie S
Sterilization Technician
Mariela C
Patient Advocate
Services We Offer
Our Kershaw office provides a full range of dental services, including:
Preventive Care (Cleanings, Exams, and Fluoride Treatments)
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are the foundation of a healthy smile. Our thorough exams help catch potential issues early, while professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone can’t reach. Fluoride treatments provide extra protection against cavities by strengthening your enamel. With routine preventive care, we help you maintain a confident, long-lasting smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry (Teeth Whitening, Veneers, and Smile Makeovers)
A beautiful smile can boost your confidence, and our cosmetic dentistry services are designed to help you achieve just that. Professional teeth whitening lifts years of stains, while veneers provide a flawless, natural-looking enhancement for chipped, discolored, or misshapen teeth. Whether you’re looking for a small change or a complete smile makeover, we’ll create a customized treatment plan to bring your dream smile to life.
Restorative Treatments (Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges)
If you have a damaged or missing tooth, our restorative treatments can bring back the function and appearance of your smile. Tooth-colored fillings seamlessly repair cavities, while crowns restore strength and structure to weakened teeth. For missing teeth, bridges offer a natural-looking solution to fill gaps and prevent further dental issues. Our goal is to keep your smile healthy and strong for years to come.
Dental Implants for Permanent Tooth Replacement
Missing teeth don’t have to impact your confidence or quality of life. Dental implants are a long-term, natural-looking solution that replaces both the root and crown of a missing tooth. They function just like real teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, making them an excellent investment in your oral health.
Comfortable Root Canals and Extractions
When a tooth is severely damaged or infected, a root canal can save it from extraction while relieving pain and restoring function. If an extraction is necessary, we make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Our gentle approach ensures minimal discomfort and a quick recovery. We’ll also discuss tooth replacement options to keep your smile complete and healthy.
Customized Treatment Plans Tailored to Your Needs
Every smile is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your goals and oral health needs. Whether you need a single procedure or a full-mouth rehabilitation, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle and budget. Our goal is to provide exceptional care with long-term results, helping you achieve and maintain a smile you love.