Meet the team behind your smile
Our Story
Dentistry should be as relaxing as spending time with friends
Grande Dunes Dental is a husband-and-wife-owned dental practice in Myrtle Beach built around one simple idea: care should feel personal. We combine advanced technology with genuine relationships to create a space where you feel heard, cared for, and completely at ease.
Whether you’re here for a routine cleaning or a full smile transformation, you can count on thoughtful, modern dentistry delivered with heart and a smile!
Dr. Michael Whalen
Originally from Charlotte, Dr. Michael Whalen earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia before completing his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the UNC Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. He went on to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency while serving the Navajo Nation in Winslow, Arizona. Dr. Whalen then spent five years in private practice in Phoenix, where he continued advanced training and provided both general and complex dental services to a diverse patient population.
Passionate about giving back, Dr. Whalen has volunteered on service trips to the Dominican Republic and through organizations like Missions of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile. Now living in Myrtle Beach, he’s excited to bring his dedication, skill, and heart for service to the coastal community he and his fiancée, Kiley, now call home.
Good to know
- 5Completed AEGD residency in Arizona
- 5Committed to continuing education and clinical excellence
- 5Experienced in full-scope general and advanced dental services
- 5Volunteers regularly to provide care for underserved communities
Fun to know
- 5Loves traveling, snowboarding, and gardening
- 5Recently engaged and traveled the world with his fiancée
- 5Dog dad to Marty and Benzie
- 5Moved to Myrtle Beach after falling in love with the coastal lifestyle
Kiley (soon-to-be Whalen!)
Originally from a small ski town in Northern Arizona, Kiley Gilmore recently relocated to the East Coast from Phoenix. With 6 years of experience in the dental field, she has worked as both a dental assistant and administrator across a variety of specialties, including cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, and general practice. Each of these roles has expanded her perspective and strengthened her love for dentistry.
Kiley is excited to build new relationships with patients and become part of the Myrtle Beach community. Outside the office, she enjoys being outdoors, painting, staying active, traveling, and spending time with her family, friends, and two playful dogs, Marty and Benzi. She is engaged to Dr. Michael Whalen, and together they are thrilled to serve their new coastal home with care and heart.
Your Dental Team
Areli
Dental Assistant
Outside the office, Areli loves spending time with her four children, her new grandbaby, and two playful toy poodles. You’ll often find her enjoying the sunshine at the beach on her days off.
Lacey
Registered Dental Hygienist
Born and raised on a family farm just outside Myrtle Beach, Lacey brings both warmth and down-to-earth care to her work as a dental hygienist. With over 17 years of experience, she’s known for her gentle approach, attention to detail, and genuine passion for helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their smiles.
Outside of the office, Lacey is a devoted wife and proud mom to two energetic boys who keep her life full of laughter and motion. She loves gardening, cooking, and spending time outdoors—always staying true to her country roots and the values that shaped her growing up.
For Lacey, being a dental hygienist isn’t just about clean teeth—it’s about caring for people, building trust, and helping others smile a little brighter every day.
Why patients choose us
Relationship-Based Care
You’ll never feel rushed or like just a number. We take time to understand your goals and concerns.
Full-Service, Modern Dentistry
From cleanings to implants, we offer a wide range of services using the latest tools.
Relaxed, Comforting Environment
Coastal-inspired space designed to ease dental anxiety.
Community-First Values
From beach cleanups to second opinions, we’re here to serve.
Revitalizing our space so we can better revitalize your smile
Before
After
Exceptional dentistry for every smile
Maintain
Cleanings, exams, and preventive care to keep your smile healthy for life.
Enhance
Whitening, veneers, and everything in between to help you achieve your dream smile.
Restore
Implants, same-day crowns, and more to bring back function and confidence.
Support
Emergency care, sedation options, and second opinions when you need them most.
This is why we do it
Let’s care for your smile
Ready for a better dental experience in Myrtle Beach? Come see how different dentistry can feel when it’s done with heart.
A friendly dentist near you
308 79th Ave N,
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Monday - Thursday 8-5 pm
