teathTop-Rated Orthodontist in Charleston, SC

Love Your New Smile with Affordable Braces from Reese Orthodontics

Orthodontist in Charleston, SC

A smile is such a simple thing, but it can hold so much power. Smiling is universally considered to be a way that humans display joy. Smiles communicate to others how we're feeling and are often the best way to break the ice when meeting a new person. A good-natured smile can work wonders, but if you're like most folks, your smile may not be perfect.

At Reese Orthodontics, we hear stories from people who feel ashamed, embarrassed, and even intimidated to flash their smiles. Thankfully, our practice offers reliable, cost-effective orthodontic solutions that give patients more self-esteem, more confidence, and perhaps most importantly - a healthier mouth.

Because the truth is that oral health is a window into your overall health. Orthodontic problems like misaligned teeth, difficulty chewing, or shifting jaws should be taken seriously. If orthodontic problems are left untreated, you may experience abnormal enamel wear, tooth decay, and gum disease. These issues can signal even more concerning issues like heart disease that develop over time and leave you laid up in the largest hospital in Charleston.

Working with a board-certified, respected orthodontist and community member like Dr. Reese can provide many benefits, including:

  • Proper Teeth and Jaw Functionality
  • Healthier Smile and Facial Structure
  • Tooth Decay and Tooth Loss Prevention
  • A Better Bite for Easy and Effective Speaking and Chewing
  • Avoid Costly Dental Procedures That Orthodontic Treatment Can Address Early

Unfortunately, looking for the best orthodontist in Charleston, SC is hard - and we're not even talking about trying to sift through and digest all the information out there on braces and Invisalign. With so much information on the web, and much of it with conflicting viewpoints, how are you supposed to know which options are the best for you and your family? Dr. Reese and his team of specialized dental experts have made it their mission to help.

The Reese Orthodontics Difference

 Family Dentist Charleston, SC

At Reese Orthodontics, our dedicated team collaborates with you to deliver a treatment that not only enhances your smile but also boosts your confidence and supports your long-term health. If you're in search of an orthodontist in Charleston, SC, whether for yourself, your child, or a loved one, we provide cutting-edge technology and treatment options designed for a comfortable and effective orthodontic experience.

Parents seeking care for their children can expect a fun, positive environment that prioritizes their child's comfort and security alongside their dental health. Our orthodontist for kids in Charleston, SC, helps ensure our treatments result in a beautiful smile. However, you should know that aesthetic outcomes are secondary to our primary focus: achieving proper jaw alignment for a healthy bite and unobstructed breathing. We're committed to that goal and to working hand-in-hand with you to ensure that your treatment leads to a smile that enhances your confidence and long-term health.

Some of the orthodontic treatments in which we specialize include:

  • Adult Orthodontic Treatment
  • Child Orthodontic Treatment
  • Invisalign
  • Invisalign Teen
  • Braces
  • Retainers
  • Airway Support
  • More

If you're looking for one of the top orthodontists in The Palmetto State who prioritizes professionalism, compassion, and effective treatments, Reese Orthodontics. Plus, with convenient low and no-interest payment plans, you won't have to drain your account at the largest bank in Charleston to improve your dental health. Getting started with our orthodontics practice is as easy as 1-2-3:

01

Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation with Dr. Reese

During your orthodontic consultation with Dr. Reese, he will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and bite to identify your needs. He'll inquire about your medical and dental history and discuss your treatment goals. He may also take x-rays, photos, and impressions to gather more information. Dr. Reese will walk you through the treatment options available, outlining the pros and cons of each, and will provide you with an estimate of the associated costs and duration. By the end of your visit, you'll have a solid understanding of your options, empowering you to make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment.

 Dental Care Charleston, SC

02

Start Your Orthodontic Treatment

At Reese Orthodontics, Dr. Reese develops a personalized treatment plan for each patient, utilizing X-rays, photos, and impressions. This comprehensive plan details the orthodontic appliances needed, the estimated duration of treatment, and the anticipated results. Dr. Reese collaborates closely with patients to ensure that the plan fits their lifestyles and preferences, providing guidance and support throughout the entire process. With a customized approach from Reese Orthodontics, patients can pursue their desired outcomes with confidence and peace of mind.

 Cosmetic Dentistry Charleston, SC

03

Flash Those Pearly Whites!

Choosing orthodontic treatment at Reese Orthodontics comes with numerous advantages, including better oral health, an improved smile, and enhanced functionality. Dr. Reese tailors treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs, utilizing cutting-edge technology such as digital impressions and 3D printing. The knowledgeable and compassionate team at Reese Orthodontics is committed to providing top-notch care throughout your orthodontic journey. In summary, opting for orthodontic treatment at Reese Orthodontics not only boosts oral health and appearance but also ensures a personalized experience driven by the latest advancements in technology and a dedicated team.

 Dental Hygienist Charleston, SC

Your pathway to a beautiful smile starts by choosing the treatment options best for your lifestyle.

Invisalign in Charleston, SC

Invisalign is a teeth straightening system that employs a series of clear aligners designed to gradually move your teeth into their correct alignment. Invisalign treatments from Reese Orthodontics are custom-made to fit your mouth through a precise 3D scan, allowing us to carefully plan and implement adjustments throughout your treatment. While you should avoid certain foods, you can still enjoy the things you love when you're undergoing Invisalign treatment. So, if you love waking up on the weekend and going to the most popular breakfast restaurant in Charleston, you can still do so without harming your progress.

Unlike traditional mouthguards or retainers, you can easily remove your Invisalign aligner when it's time to eat, brush, or floss. More than just holding your teeth in place, each aligner gently guides your teeth into their healthier positions. Every Invisalign aligner is tailored to meet your specific needs, and as your teeth shift, we create new aligners to continue your treatment effectively.

 Teeth Cleaning Charleston, SC

Invisalign is perfect for teens and adults who have:

  • Gapped or Spaced Teeth
  • Overcrowded Teeth
  • Crooked Teeth
  • Crossbites, Underbites, or Overbites

How Does Invisalign Help Orthodontic Patients in South Carolina?

As is the case with most teeth straightening procedures, Invisalign provides you with both aesthetic and oral health benefits. Some of those benefits include:

Comfortable

Comfortable to Wear

Invisalign is crafted from a high-quality medical-grade polymer that has been specifically engineered for comfort and durability. This advanced material is designed to be soft and smooth, making it exceptionally gentle on the sensitive tissues of the mouth, including the gums and inner cheeks. The biocompatibility of the polymer ensures that it minimizes irritation, allowing for a more comfortable experience during the teeth straightening process.

Discreet

Subtly Discreet

Invisalign aligners are crafted with clear, custom-fit trays that are specifically designed to be inconspicuous. These aligners allow you to straighten your teeth without the visibility of traditional metal braces. The transparent design ensures that you can wear them comfortably throughout your daily activities-whether at work, school, or social gatherings-without drawing attention to your orthodontic treatment.

convenience

Maximum Convenience

The convenience of being able to remove your Invisalign trays allows you to enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without restriction, just like you could prior to orthodontic treatment. Taking a trip to the most popular state park in Charleston and want to eat a hot dog while you're there? Go ahead and enjoy. You can also brush and floss your teeth with ease, ensuring that your dental health remains a priority throughout your treatment.

Confidence

More Confidence

You can feel confident knowing that you're making strides toward achieving a beautiful smile, all while avoiding any embarrassment about food getting stuck in your braces!

Oral

Top-Notch Oral Health

Braces, with their brackets, wires, and elastics, can harbor bacteria and food particles, making oral hygiene difficult. This complexity increases the risk of plaque buildup and dental issues. In contrast, Invisalign in Charleston, SC, uses clear aligners that are removable, allowing for easier access to teeth for brushing and flossing. This simplicity promotes better oral hygiene and helps maintain healthy gums during treatment.

Reliable

Reliable Results

When it comes to fixing a misaligned bite, Invisalign consistently helps our clients achieve their goals. Wave goodbye to underbites, overbites, and all the nuances in between with this proven orthodontic solution.

Affordable Braces in South Carolina

Braces are among the first treatment options that your orthodontist in Charleston, SC, will prescribe when you have treatable oral health issues. At Reese Orthodontics, we understand that cost is a crucial factor when looking for affordable braces in South Carolina. We believe that financial concerns should never stand in the way of getting the orthodontic treatment you need.

That's why we strive to help you navigate your budget while still delivering top-notch orthodontic care. Our goal is to make your treatment costs as manageable and straightforward as possible. From handling your insurance paperwork to providing no- or low-interest payment options, we're here to take the stress out of the financial side so you can concentrate on what truly matters-achieving a healthy, happy smile. Plus, we make your initial consultation stress-free and easy to understand, so it doesn't feel like you're waiting in line at the busiest DMV near Charleston, SC.

Depending on your teeth and oral health needs, you can choose from a variety of braces options, including:

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are an excellent choice for aligning your smile and bite effectively. Metal braces are usually what people think of when they're considering an orthodontist. We're here to help you choose the best options for your needs and guide you through the process every step of the way.

Dentist Office Charleston, SC
 Family Dentist Charleston, SC

Clear Braces

For many patients, traditional metal braces may do the job, but the desire for a more discreet option is common. Clear braces serve as an excellent alternative, featuring brackets that blend seamlessly with the color of your teeth, making them nearly invisible!

Gold Braces

Looking to make a bold statement with your orthodontic treatment? We're excited to offer gold braces in Charleston, SC, featuring a stunning gold finish. These distinctive braces, crafted by 3M Unitek, are just as sturdy and reliable as traditional metal braces, providing both style and strength.

 Dental Care Charleston, SC
 Cosmetic Dentistry Charleston, SC

Damon Braces

Damon braces represent a state-of-the-art orthodontic solution designed to straighten your teeth without the hassle of elastic ties. Offered in both clear and metal options, Damon braces are not only easier to clean but also more visually appealing. They can provide you with a wider smile compared to traditional braces, making them a great choice for your orthodontic needs.

Kid's Braces

Seeing an orthodontist for kids in Charleston, SC, is one of the best decisions you can make as a parent. Reese Orthodontics brings years of experience in providing braces for kids. Having your child evaluated for braces early on goes beyond mere appearance. Early orthodontic treatment can effectively shape the growth and development of your child's jaw and teeth, helping to prevent more serious issues down the line.

 Dental Hygienist Charleston, SC

Retainers

Google Rating 5.0 Based on 492 Reviews

Once your braces come off, whether it's for you or your child, it's a moment to celebrate your beautiful, new smile. To ensure that all the effort and investment into your orthodontic treatment pays off, we recommend that you consider retainers. These devices help keep your smile straight long after your braces are removed. Keep reading to discover the importance of retainers and the benefits they offer after your braces treatment is complete.

What Exactly is a Retainer?

At Reese Orthodontics, we know that some people think of teeth cleanings like standing in line at the busiest DMV in Cardiff By The Sea, MN. While they aren't everyone's cup of tea, regular dental cleanings play a key role in maintaining your oral health. Our highly-trained dental hygienists perform comprehensive cleanings that not only eliminate plaque and tartar but also promote healthy gums and fresh breath. During each appointment, we look out for any early signs of decay or gum disease, ensuring that your smile remains bright and healthy throughout the year.

 Teeth Cleaning Charleston, SC

Retainer Options at Reese Orthodontics

Retainers from Reese Orthodontics come in one of two forms - removable and fixed. Each option has its own benefits, which include:

Dentist Office Charleston, SC

01Start Your Orthodontic Treatment

Removable retainers are crafted from molds of your teeth and can be made from durable plastic or acrylic with a wire. One of their key benefits is that they can be taken out to eat, brush, and floss, giving them a distinct advantage over fixed retainers. For the best results, you need to follow your orthodontist's guidelines regarding care and the duration for which you should wear them.

02Start Your Orthodontic Treatment

At Reese Orthodontics, Dr. Reese develops a personalized treatment plan for each patient, utilizing X-rays, photos, and impressions. This comprehensive plan details the orthodontic appliances needed, the estimated duration of treatment, and the anticipated results. Dr. Reese collaborates closely with patients to ensure that the plan fits their lifestyles and preferences, providing guidance and support throughout the entire process. With a customized approach from Reese Orthodontics, patients can pursue their desired outcomes with confidence and peace of mind.

Removable retainers should be worn for a minimum of 20 hours each day during the first 12 months after your braces are taken off. Following this period, Dr. Reese will evaluate how your teeth are settling in and decide whether you need to continue wearing the retainer full-time or if you can switch to a nighttime-only schedule.

Airway Support

When it comes to oral health, there's a lot more to consider than just how your teeth align. When you see a trusted orthodontist in Charleston, SC, like Dr. Reese, one of the first steps they'll take is to assess your airway and jaw structure. But why is this important?

Throughout your life, the development of your jaw structure plays a key role in the health of your airway, teeth, and tongue posture. Did you know that healthy breathing relies on breathing through your nose? If there are anatomical variations in your nasal passages, jaw structure, or tongue posture, it can lead to improper breathing and potentially disrupt your sleep. These issues can significantly affect your overall health and quality of life, both for you and your child.

Dr. Reese takes a holistic approach by crafting a treatment plan that addresses your complete well-being, not just your teeth. Our goal is to provide better health and comfort for you or your child from start to finish.

Orthodontic Treatment Options to Help You Breathe Better

 Family Dentist Charleston, SC

To improve your airway, the first step is identifying any airway issues and their root causes. Addressing these problems usually requires a team of airway specialists, including orthodontists.

For children, we assess their medical history, jaw development, and the size of tonsils and adenoids. Treatment typically involves orthodontic growth modification alongside evaluations by other healthcare providers. In adults, underdeveloped jaws can lead to sleep apnea or nasal airway resistance, but since jaw growth stops in the teen years, growth modification isn't an option. Nonetheless, there are still various treatments available to enhance the airway in adults.

Your treatment options may include:

  • Jaw Surgery
  • Snoring Appliances
  • Expansion Treatment

Long-Lasting Oral Health Begins at Reese Orthodontics

Google Rating 5.0 Based on 492 Reviews

Dr. Reese McElveen, our award-winning orthodontist in Charleston, SC, has brightened the smiles of over 11,000 patients-and we're ready to help you, too. At Reese Orthodontics, we provide top-notch orthodontic care for both children and adults, all at prices that won't break the bank. Reach out to our office today and take your first step toward achieving excellent oral health!

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Latest News in Charleston, SC

Longstanding Charleston corner store has coffee, crepes and plenty of character

A small corner store is hushed outside, save for the carriage tours trotting along Queen Street. When they reach Logan Street, the tourists exploring Charleston by horse pass an establishment that’s been around for more than a century.Inside Queen Street Grocery, the décor is colorful and the setting is cozy. Customers thank staff members — “the Queens” — for a sandwich well made, their baskets cleaned of classics with...

A small corner store is hushed outside, save for the carriage tours trotting along Queen Street. When they reach Logan Street, the tourists exploring Charleston by horse pass an establishment that’s been around for more than a century.

Inside Queen Street Grocery, the décor is colorful and the setting is cozy. Customers thank staff members — “the Queens” — for a sandwich well made, their baskets cleaned of classics with turkey, roasted red peppers and coconut curry sauce inside toasted ciabatta. Some days might bring Bill Murray in for his namesake crepe, prepared on the same circular griddle used to fold eggs for breakfast sandwiches and omelets with feta, spinach, tomatoes and artichoke hearts.

Queen Street Grocery, owned by a local actor, represents a remnant from Charleston’s past with fare firmly planted in the present. The shop shows that, as Charleston’s dining scene flourishes, the city still has a need for a classic corner store with scratch-made sandwiches, provisions, a friendly staff and good vibes.

The backstory

Queen Street Grocery has served the Harleston Village since the 1920s. In its earlier days, patrons would swing by for fresh milk in the morning, and children would walk to the corner store for candy and ice cream after school. Later at night, members of the neighborhood would drop by to watch the nightly news over a cold beer.

In the 1990s, Queen Street Grocery was one of about a dozen surviving corner stores in downtown Charleston. It became a hangout for construction workers repairing homes in the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo, drawing the ire of Harleston Village residents who blamed the out-of-town workers for “crime and shoddy construction.”

The dispute was eventually resolved, and Queen Street Grocery continued to chug along as Charleston changed. It expanded its offering to include more prepared foods after the turn of the century. In 2011, the business was purchased by Rob Bouton, a Greenville-born actor who fell in love with bodegas and corner stores while living in New York City.

‘It’s a special place’

Bouton found himself leading one of the most interesting lives in Charleston. In a given week, he would rub shoulders with celebrities like Marlon Wayans and Murray while managing a place where college kids in pajamas might be sitting next to retirees reading The Post and Courier.

When he purchased Queen Street Grocery, across the street from the original home of Roper St. Francis Hospital, Bouton wanted to “make it funkier,” he said. That meant adding to the menu and changing the music but keeping the neighborhood character.

Most who frequent the place would agree Bouton, who has appeared in movies and shows like “Dawson’s Creek,” has achieved that goal. He said he couldn’t have done so without staff members like Bobbi McLaughlin and Bonnie Bull, who helped mold Queen Street Grocery into what it is today.

“It’s a special place,” Bouton said. “It’s like me owning a bar without owning a bar.”

A handheld named the Tenacious Turkey is the shop's most popular sandwich, Bouton said. It shares the same combination of turkey, Brie cheese and green apple as Murray’s crepe. The Happy Houdini is a personal favorite; its smoky ham revels in the company of creamy avocado and tart goat cheese.

The food isn’t striving for culinary awards, but it succeeds in taste and ingenuity. Pair that with a welcoming ambiance and you have yourself a café that’s become the cornerstone of a tight-knit downtown neighborhood.

Gov. McMaster names 3 SC chefs as culinary ambassadors for 2025. Here’s who made the list

For more than a decade, state leaders have annually named a group of SC Chef Ambassadors, part of an ongoing effort to promote the culinary traditions and agricultural heritage of the Palmetto State.On Monday, the newest crop of ambassadors were unveiled.Gov. Henry McMaster announced that he had appointed Jeanne Koenigsberg, executive chef and kitchen general manager of Greenville’s Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery; Darren Smith, owner and execu...

For more than a decade, state leaders have annually named a group of SC Chef Ambassadors, part of an ongoing effort to promote the culinary traditions and agricultural heritage of the Palmetto State.

On Monday, the newest crop of ambassadors were unveiled.

Gov. Henry McMaster announced that he had appointed Jeanne Koenigsberg, executive chef and kitchen general manager of Greenville’s Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery; Darren Smith, owner and executive chef of Conway’s Rivertown Bistro and Bonfire; and Shuai Wang, chef and owner of Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ in North Charleston, as the state’s 2025 Chef Ambassadors.

The trio will represent the state at food festivals and other promotional events throughout the next year. This is the 11th year of the ambassador program, which is a collaborative effort of the state’s Department of Agriculture and Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. The governor appoints the ambassadors each year.

“Food is an important part of our state’s history, culture, and economy, and it’s where two of our largest industries — tourism and agriculture — overlap and excel,” McMaster said in a statement. “Our world-class culinary talent is highlighted and celebrated through the Chef Ambassador program, showcasing the best of South Carolina chefs, farmers, and locally grown products.”

Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery was founded in 2011 and is on Cedar Lane Road in Greenville, just off the Swamp Rabbit Trail. It’s a grocery store, bakery and cafe, and also has a food hub where it partners with growers to help identify crops in high market demand.

“I’m humbled to accept this nomination in a non-traditional food service establishment,” Koenigsberg said in a statement. “It reminds us that the work we are doing is important to our community and surrounding communities. I know that this will continue to give us a platform to show the importance of local agriculture here in South Carolina.”

Smith’s Rivertown Bistro in Conway has been a mainstay for more than 30 years, offering elevated American cuisine with a contemporary twist. Meanwhile, his Bonfire is billed as a “smokin’ taqueria” along the Waccamaw River, offering a host of tacos, sandwiches, pulled pork and more.

“As someone born and raised in South Carolina, I’ve always believed our state is the most beautiful, with its diverse landscapes and world-class products,” Smith said in a statement. “To be named a South Carolina Chef Ambassador is an honor beyond anything I ever dreamed of.

“This opportunity is more than a title. It’s a chance to learn from others, build relationships with fellow chefs and farmers, and share my culinary knowledge and passion for South Carolina’s vibrant food culture.”

Wang’s Jackrabbit Filly touts “heritage driven Chinese American” fare at the restaurant on East Montague Avenue in North Charleston. Meanwhile, King BBQ’s website tabs it as “Chinatown BBQ with Southern smoke.”

King BBQ was listed among Southern Living’s best new barbecue joints in 2024.

“This opportunity is a great way for me to showcase just how easy it is to support your local farmers and fishermen, and that any cuisine is able to utilize what is locally grown seasonally,” Wang said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to all the fun events that I get to be a part of this year, representing Charleston and South Carolina.”

The State

Chris Trainor is a retail reporter for The State and has been working for newspapers in South Carolina for more than 20 years, including previous stops at the (Greenwood) Index-Journal and the (Columbia) Free Times. He is the winner of numerous South Carolina Press Association awards, including honors in column writing, government beat reporting, profile writing, food writing, business beat reporting, election coverage, social media and more.

Marina Variety Store changes ownership after 61 years, business planned as usual for now

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — After 61 years of family ownership, Charleston's Marina Variety Store and Restaurant is in new hands.The Altine and Ritter families have operated the Variety Store for decades. The legendary local restaurant's now-former owners said its fate is now in the hands of Safe Harbor Marinas, a nationwide marina operation and subsidiary of the publicly-traded real estate investment trust Sun Communities.Despite the change in management, the Altine and Ritter families stressed that business will continue ...

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — After 61 years of family ownership, Charleston's Marina Variety Store and Restaurant is in new hands.

The Altine and Ritter families have operated the Variety Store for decades. The legendary local restaurant's now-former owners said its fate is now in the hands of Safe Harbor Marinas, a nationwide marina operation and subsidiary of the publicly-traded real estate investment trust Sun Communities.

Despite the change in management, the Altine and Ritter families stressed that business will continue as usual - for now.

"We want to take a moment to assure you that, for now, everything will continue as it always has," the two families wrote in a joint statement on Facebook. "Your favorite dishes will still be served, and you'll continue to see the familiar, friendly faces that have made your dining experiences special over the years."

The two families went on to reflect on their 61-year journey, saying visitors to their restaurant at 9 Lockwood Drive have become part of their "extended family."

"As we turn this page, we want to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support, your loyalty, and the love you've shown over the years," they wrote. "We're excited to continue this journey with you and look forward to many more years of shared moments, laughter, and memories."

READ MORE | "Hungry for a deal? Dozens of Charleston Restaurants Prepare for annual 'Restaurant Week'"

Charleston locals were quick to offer their thanks to the restaurant's long-time owners, with many expressing hopes it stays just the way it is.

"At least it will still be here," commented one Facebook user. "Hopefully, new ownership won't ruin this Charleston Gem!"

Some listed specific dishes they don't want changed - the crab cakes eggs benedict, pies, and cinnamon buns all got mentions.

"My Dad and his gang of misfits sat at Karen's big table on the marina end, every Monday-Friday," wrote one commenter. "One of the best restaurants downtown Charleston," wrote another.

The City of Charleston owns the land at 9 Lockwood Drive and approved the transfer of that lease to Safe Harbor, according to a Committee of Ways and Means agenda from Oct. 2024.

When Safe Harbor was acquired by Sun Communities in Oct. 2020 they owned 99 marinas across the United States. They operate over 130 as of Jan. 2025, according to their website.

Read the full announcement from the Altine and Ritter families on Facebook below:

Ulbrich: Tips from S.C. on how to save Social Security

Like many other states, South Carolina found itself in difficulty with its public pension system in the last two decades.Years ago, the Social Security model of a defined- benefit pension program was widely adopted by states for their own public employees, but many of these state systems were underfunded. South Carolina’s underfunding resulted from a costly retirement incentive program and some serious errors in managing the funds. The 2000 dot-com crash and the 2008 housing crash took more bites out of the fund. Low pay for sta...

Like many other states, South Carolina found itself in difficulty with its public pension system in the last two decades.

Years ago, the Social Security model of a defined- benefit pension program was widely adopted by states for their own public employees, but many of these state systems were underfunded. South Carolina’s underfunding resulted from a costly retirement incentive program and some serious errors in managing the funds. The 2000 dot-com crash and the 2008 housing crash took more bites out of the fund. Low pay for state workers and the availability of a 401(k) option for some state workers reduced the ratio of workers paying into the fund of retirees collecting benefits. Underfunding slowed down growth of revenue from the system’s assets even as payouts to retirees were rising.

But like at least a few other states, South Carolina has assumed its responsibilities to current and retired state workers. States like South Carolina increased the employee contribution by a moderate amount and the state contribution by a much larger amount until the system’s assets are at least close actuarially to being properly funded. In the last few years, the fund has actually seen revenue from pension fund contributions exceed payments to beneficiaries. Professional management, closely supervised by a commission with suitable professional qualifications, has made significant progress toward full funding. South Carolina does not give cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), but it does provide an annual 1% increase, subject to a $500 cap.

Why am I writing to our U.S. senators about this issue? Because there are close parallels between what is happening in the states and the urgent need to take action on federal Social Security. Like South Carolina’s public pension plan, Social Security is a defined-benefit plan that is not adequately funded. But unlike the S.C. General Assembly, Congress has been all talk and no action. The only cap in Social Security is on the amount of wages and salary subject to the Social Security tax.

We should consider removing the federal cap on income subject to the tax and impose a cap on benefits instead.The average billionaire doesn’t derive much income from something as plebeian as wages and salaries, but rather from profits, dividends, capital gains and other forms of compensation that are not subject to Social Security taxes. So, they have no reason to object. Football coaches, university presidents and others might have a challenge rearranging their income streams to evade some of the tax, but it would still generate considerably more revenue.

Why do we also need a benefit cap? Part of the challenge of increasing the income cap subject to Social Security tax is that it would result in higher future benefits to be paid to those high-end workers, based on their full earnings. A second cap would be needed on benefits to make this proposal work. Most higher income earners have access to additional retirement income from pensions, 401(K) plans and investments. So a benefit cap would not be a serious challenge to their lifestyle.

Social Security was never meant to be the sole source of retirement income, although it is for many Americans. Right now, the maximum possible benefit for a single individual is about $6,000 a month, or $72,000 a year, which should enable someone to survive without depending on the local food bank. A benefit cap of $6,000 a month with an annual COLA should not be too much hardship to bear.

Married? A spouse with limited earnings can claim half her husband’s benefit, raising the family income from Social Security alone to as much as $108,000. (In the South Carolina retirement system, unlike Social Security, retirees can assure survivor benefits for a spouse only by reducing their own monthly benefit to ensure those payments.) Retirees on the lower end of the income spectrum receive a larger percentage of their average wage than wealthier retirees.

Benefits are also more favorable to households with a single high-earner than those relying on two earners, each with a more moderate income. Certainly there are other challenges to be addressed, such as treatment of two-income families, but time is wasting and the Social Security Trust Fund is shrinking. Let’s do something NOW to increase the revenue and slow the growth of future benefits.

Holley Ulbrich is an alumni distinguished professor emerita of economics at Clemson University.

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Tagged: money

Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth Odds

The Charleston (SC) Cougars (13-3, 3-0 CAA) are 6-point favorites as they try to build on a five-game winning streak when they visit the Monmouth Hawks (3-13, 1-2 CAA) on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at OceanFirst Bank Center. The contest airs at 1:00 PM ET on FloCollege. The over/under for the matchup is set at 150.Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth Promo CodesGame Time and InformationWho Will Win Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth?Charleston (SC) is 4-1 against the spread when favored by 6 points or more this season....

The Charleston (SC) Cougars (13-3, 3-0 CAA) are 6-point favorites as they try to build on a five-game winning streak when they visit the Monmouth Hawks (3-13, 1-2 CAA) on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at OceanFirst Bank Center. The contest airs at 1:00 PM ET on FloCollege. The over/under for the matchup is set at 150.

Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth Promo Codes

Game Time and Information

Who Will Win Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth?

Charleston (SC) is 4-1 against the spread when favored by 6 points or more this season.

Monmouth has a 5-2 record against the spread this season when an underdog by 6 points or more.

The Cougars and the Hawks combine to average 4.2 fewer points per game than the total of 150 set for this game.

Opponents of the two teams average a combined 0.4 more points per game, 150.4, than this game’s total of 150 points.

The average over/under Charleston (SC) has had set in games this year is 2.9 more points than this outing’s point total.

The average point total for the Hawks this season is 6.7 points fewer than this game’s over/under.

The Cougars have an 11-4-0 record against the spread this season.

The Hawks have gone 8-8-0 ATS this season.

Charleston (SC) outscores opponents by 4.9 points per game (scoring 78.9 per game to rank 94th in college basketball while giving up 74 per contest to rank 253rd in college basketball) and has a +79 scoring differential overall.

Charleston (SC) ranks 148th in college basketball at 33.4 rebounds per game. That’s similar to the 34 its opponents average.

The Cougars hit 7.9 three-pointers per game (173rd in college basketball), while their opponents have made 8.1 on average.

Charleston (SC) ranks 156th in college basketball by averaging 97.2 points per 100 possessions on offense, and defensively is 177th in college basketball, allowing 91.1 points per 100 possessions.

The Cougars put up 84.1 points per game when playing at home, compared to 68.5 points per game in road games, a difference of 15.6 points per contest.

Monmouth has been outscored by 9.5 points per game (posting 66.9 points per game, 333rd in college basketball, while conceding 76.4 per outing, 304th in college basketball) and has a -153 scoring differential.

Monmouth pulls down 29.6 rebounds per game (320th in college basketball) while allowing 33.7 per outing to opponents. It is outrebounded by 4.1 boards per game.

Monmouth connects on 7.4 three-pointers per game (218th in college basketball) compared to its opponents’ 7.9. It shoots 36% from deep, and its opponents shoot 34.5%.

Monmouth ranks 341st in college basketball averaging 86.3 points per 100 possessions on offense, and defensively is 333rd, allowing 98.7 points per 100 possessions.

The scoring and rebounding leader for the Cougars is Ante Brzovic, who puts up 19.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game.

CJ Fulton is Charleston (SC)’s best passer, dishing out 6.1 assists per game while scoring 7.8 PPG.

Deywilk Tavarez leads the Cougars in three-point shooting, knocking down an average of 2.1 shots per game from beyond the arc.

Fulton and Brzovic lead Charleston (SC) on the defensive end, with Fulton leading the team in steals averaging 1.6 per game and Brzovic in blocks averaging 1.1 per contest.

Abdi Bashir Jr. is the top scorer for the Hawks with 21.4 points per game. Bashir also tacks on 2.4 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.

Monmouth’s leader in rebounds is Cornelius Robinson Jr. with 5.3 per game, and its leader in assists is Madison Durr with 3.3 per game.

Bashir averages 3.9 three-pointers per game, the most on the Hawks.

Jack Collins (1.3 steals per game) is the steal leader for Monmouth while Jaret Valencia (1.5 blocks per game) is the block leader.

Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth Prediction

How to Bet on Charleston (SC) vs. Monmouth

And for more CBB game previews, NCAA basketball picks or even how to bet on college basketball check out the latest NCAAB lines on Betsperts.

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