About

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Meet The Team at Waccamaw Oral Surgery

Gentle, Expert Care from a Doctor Who Truly Listens

At Waccamaw Oral Surgery, compassionate care isn’t just a goal, it’s our practice philosophy. Leading the team is Dr. Lucia Covington, who brings a unique combination of surgical precision, aesthetic skill, and heartfelt compassion to every patient she serves.

Based in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, Dr. Covington has spent over a decade building a practice where patients feel safe, seen, and supported — whether they’re here for a complex procedure or a routine extraction.

She understands the anxiety that can often accompany dental surgery. That’s why she’s made it her mission to combine state-of-the-art technology with a calm, welcoming environment that puts patients at ease from the moment they walk through the door.

Waccamaw Oral Surgery
About Dr. Covington - DMD OMFS Oral Surgeon

Dr. Lucia Covington DMD, OMFS - Oral Surgeon

A South Carolina Native with Deep Local Roots

Dr. Covington grew up in Manning, SC, where her father, Dr. William F. “Bill” Rawlinson, Jr., practiced dentistry for nearly four decades. Inspired by his dedication and care, she pursued a path in oral surgery with the same level of passion and commitment to patient well-being.

She received her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from The College of Charleston, then earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in 2009.

Her residency and specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at MUSC included extensive hands-on experience in:

  • Anesthesia & sedation
  • Facial trauma and reconstructive surgery
  • Bone grafting & dental implants
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery
  • Orthognathic (jaw realignment) surgery
  • Pediatric and general surgery
  • Neurosurgery and cardiology

This comprehensive background allows her to treat a wide range of conditions — from wisdom teeth and jaw pain to facial injuries and advanced cosmetic procedures — with expert precision and care.

Leading Provider of Facial Aesthetic Surgery in the Region

In addition to oral surgery, Dr. Covington is a recognized leader in facial aesthetics, with more than a decade of experience helping patients enhance their appearance and confidence.

She’s been offering Botox since 2013, added laser aesthetics in 2017, and now operates a Cynosure Center of Excellence at her office.

Her work is guided by a deep understanding of head and neck anatomy, combined with a keen artistic eye. From subtle rejuvenation to transformative cosmetic procedures, she helps patients achieve natural, beautiful results — safely and effectively.

Awards, Affiliations, and Recognition

Dr. Covington has received widespread recognition for her clinical expertise and community leadership, including:

  • Best Oral Surgeon – “Best of the Inlet” (2013–2022)
  • Trademark Women of Distinction (2019)


She is an active member of:

  • American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
  • American Dental Association (ADA)
  • South Carolina Dental Association
  • Pee Dee Dental Society
  • Grand Strand Dental Society (Past Vice President & President)
  • Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
  • Murrells Inlet 2020


Dr. Covington is also honored to serve veterans through the Charleston VA Hospital, inspired by her family’s strong ties to military service.

Our team

A Practice That Feels Like Home

When you visit Waccamaw Oral Surgery, you’re greeted by a team that shares Dr. Covington’s values, excellence, empathy, and integrity.

From the first phone call to your final follow-up, our staff is here to guide you through every step of your treatment with compassion and care.

Front Desk Staff

Tonya - BLS - Front Desk & Insurance Coordinator

Tonya Hannah, BLS

Front Desk & Insurance Coordinator

Amy Ryther - BLS - Office Manager & Insurance Coordinator

Amy Ryther, BLS

Office Manager & Insurance Coordinator

Emily Churchill

Front Desk

Clinical Staff

Ashli, ACLS, BLS, Nitrous & DANB Certified Surgical Assistant

Ashli Howard, ACLS, BLS, Nitrous & DANB Certified

Surgical Assistant

Maleeta Phetsaya, ACLS & BLS

Surgical Assistant

Emotional Support Dogs

Cora

Cora

Fynn
Fynn
Sam
Sam

Giving Back to the Community

Waccamaw Oral Surgery is deeply rooted in Georgetown County and the Grand Strand, and giving back is a core part of our mission.

We support a range of charitable and educational organizations

  • Children’s Recovery Center
  • Lions Club
  • All 4 Paws Animal Rescue
  • Toys for Tots
  • Special Olympics
  • Downtown Pawleys Live
  • Murrells Inlet 2020

Proud sponsors of local schools and programs

  • Waccamaw Schools
  • Socastee Schools
  • Georgetown High School
  • St. James High School & Performing Arts

Waccamaw Oral Surgery is deeply rooted in Georgetown County and the Grand Strand, and giving back is a core part of our mission.

We Welcome Your To Visit Our Practice!

Have a perfect smile!

Discover the Difference Compassion Makes

When you choose Waccamaw Oral Surgery, you’re not just getting expert care, you’re joining a practice built on trust, service, and a deep commitment to your well-being. Whether you’re here for oral surgery, facial aesthetics, or a second opinion, we welcome you to experience the difference that compassionate, patient-first care can make.