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Palmetto Dental Continuing Education was founded by two longtime colleagues and friends, Dr. Jim Curtis and Dr. Matt Evans, who share a simple belief — that learning should be meaningful, personal, and enjoyable.
Today, Palmetto Dental CE continues that same mission — to help dentists grow their skills and find balance through authentic, in-person learning experiences in remarkable places.
Jim and Matt first met in 1998, when Jim became the Program Director for the General Practice Residency (GPR) in Columbia, South Carolina, where Matt was a resident. Their professional respect quickly grew into a lasting friendship built on shared values — a commitment to lifelong learning, a love for dentistry, and, as it turns out, a mutual passion for snow skiing.
During a relaxed evening on the back porch (and a little bourbon for inspiration), an idea began to take shape:
WHAT IF continuing education could happen in beautiful destinations, where dentists could grow professionally while also spending quality time with family and friends?
That 2023 idea became a plan, and after a year of thoughtful development, Palmetto Dental Continuing Education, LLC officially launched in the fall of 2024.
In March 2025, Jim and Matt hosted their first in-person program at Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe — blending high-quality education with a sense of adventure and fellowship. The event was a success, with participants praising both the engaging learning sessions and the chance to enjoy fresh powder, stunning scenery, and genuine camaraderie.
At Palmetto Dental CE, education isn’t confined to a lecture hall.
It happens over breakfast with a lake view, during a fireside discussion after the day’s sessions, or while families share time together between events.
Our learning experiences are officially approved by the South Carolina Academy of General Dentistry (SCAGD), ensuring quality and credibility for every topic we offer — with special discounts available for SCAGD members.
Palmetto Dental Continuing Education was founded by two lifelong colleagues and friends, Dr. Jim Curtis and Dr. Matt Evans — both respected dentists with decades of experience in clinical practice and teaching.
Their shared vision is simple: to create a continuing education experience that feels genuine, engaging, and personal. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge, a passion for mentoring, and a belief that dentists learn best when surrounded by community, inspiration, and balance.
This March, join colleagues for an unforgettable in-person learning experience in one of America’s most scenic winter destinations. Enjoy engaging discussions, fresh mountain air, and meaningful connection—all designed to refresh your mind and strengthen your practice.
With over 45 years of experience in dentistry, Dr. Jim Curtis has built a career defined by excellence, mentorship, and an enduring passion for learning.
A graduate of Clemson University (BS) and the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine (DMD), Dr. Curtis also completed a General Practice Residency at the Medical University of South Carolina Teaching Hospitals.
He is licensed by the South Carolina Board of Dentistry and is a Diplomate of the American Board of General Dentistry. His commitment to advancing the field is reflected in his impressive record of over 200 invited presentations—delivered internationally, nationally, and locally—and 32 peer-reviewed publications across dental and medical journals.
Dr. Curtis has served as a respected educator, clinician, and thought leader throughout his career. Today, he continues to advocate for lifelong learning and medical-dental collaboration through his active involvement in the South Carolina Oral Health Action Network (SCOHAN).
As co-founder of Palmetto Dental Continuing Education, Dr. Curtis brings his teaching experience, clinical expertise, and belief in the power of community to every program. He also provides expert witness reviews and testimony in dental malpractice cases.
Dr. Matt Evans brings more than two decades of focused clinical experience and a deep commitment to professional excellence. A graduate of Furman University (BA in Religion) and the Medical University of South Carolina, College of Dental Medicine (DMD), he completed a General Practice Residency at Palmetto Richland Memorial Hospital and a Certificate in Endodontology from the Oregon Health Sciences University.
Dr. Evans is licensed by the South Carolina Board of Dentistry and has been in solo endodontic practice in Lexington, SC since 2001. His passion lies in both patient care and advancing the quality of dental education through meaningful, real-world learning opportunities.
As co-founder of Palmetto Dental Continuing Education, Dr. Evans combines his clinical expertise with a genuine enthusiasm for helping dentists grow in confidence, skill, and balance—both professionally and personally.
