Dentist puts some teeth into caring for younger patients

Does your kid have a mouth? "Dr. Isabel" aims to keep it clean.

Dr. Isabel Ghowanlu Driggers, 33, opened her pediatric dentistry practice, Coastal Kids Dental, in August off Tanner Ford Boulevard in Hanahan.

Originally from Spartanburg, she graduated from Wofford College magna cum laude before graduating from the Medical University of South Carolina with a DMD in 2002.

Then she worked to earn her certificate to specialize in pediatric dentistry.

"Pediatric dentists have two additional years of training outside of dental school," Driggers said. "During this time, we focus on behavior management and growth and development of children, as well as dealing with special needs and medically compromised individuals."

She and husband Jacob Driggers, a Hanahan native, have two children, Corbin, 2 1/2, and Palmer, 18 months.

She says the kids are her favorite part of the job.

"They are so honest, which is hilarious!" she said. "I have an endless amount of patience with kids and also feel very comfortable around kids."

The active mother and dentist describes herself as high energy and compassionate and says she loves the outdoors and sports. She says these aspects and the fact that she's small make her relate well to children.

In addition to focusing on her younger patients, Driggers likes the challenges of running a small business. Her regular schedule includes mostly restorative procedures in the morning, which include everything from fillings to crowns and extractions. Her afternoons are mostly filled with cleanings.

And, of course, she is not without some pearls of wisdom.

"Sugar and acid are needed to cause decay," she said. "The key is frequency; the more you snack and sip on sugary/acidic drinks, the more likely you are to develop cavities.

"Here's a hint: sugary foods and acidic drinks at mealtimes only, if possible. Water for in between meals. As always, moderation is key.

"Healthy teeth help contribute to overall health and well-being, and this needs to start at a young age," she said.