New pediatric dentist comes to town
If one walks into the recently opened dental building on Highway 93, across from McDonald’s, they might think it's like other new dental offices in the United States. Big glass doors enter into an open waiting area with a semi-oval desk for check-in – that's from an adult's perspective.
If a child were to enter Big Sky Pediatric Dentistry, they're apt to notice a small door that's the perfect size for them.
“My approach has been, as soon as you walk in the door to disarm somebody and make them feel comfortable,” said owner and pediatric dentist Dr. Gabe Dawson.
Past the entry way the building takes on kid-friendly colors like light green, blue, and white with small space-themed items in the rooms and on the walls.
Add in a variety of games and TVs tuned to children's channels and you’ll start to get a picture of the new dental facility.
For Dawson (or Dr. Gabe, as his patients call him), it's all about creating an inviting and comfortable space for kids who enter his new building.
“In every aspect of what we do, I’ve tried to take that into account," he said. The staff is super friendly and makes the kids feel welcome.”
Dawson earned his bachelor's degree in neuroscience at Montana State and went to the University of Washington for dental school. He completed his residency at an acclaimed children's hospital in Ohio, associated with Ohio State University.
It was through experiences both in school and during his residency that Dawson learned and refined his approach to helping kids, whether it was through a simple check-up or during a more complex procedure that might require general anesthesia.
Dawson currently rotates his time between here and a clinic in Kalispell as the Polson location grows into a full-time practice.
The office is open Monday-Friday for scheduling and answering questions and Dawson is in the office Wednesdays and Fridays.
Originally from Kalispell and a proud native of Montana, Dr. Gabe stresses the importance of his Montana roots and how that aids him in understanding and providing the best care for members of small communities in the Big Sky state.
“We’re really excited to kind of take that next step where we’re working with the community and being (present),” said Dr. Gabe.
The new business owner also stressed the importance of creating lasting relationships with patients and schools in the area as the clinic builds partnerships, provides education and grows relationships within the tight-knit communities of the Mission Valley.
As far as the elevator pitch for why Dr. Gabe thinks the Mission Valley should consider his business for their pediatric dentistry needs, it's simple: “Come see the guy who’s from here and just wants the best for your kids.”
The colorful dental room at Big Sky Pediatric Dentistry with a nice view. (Kaleb Unger/Leader)
Dr. Gabe Dawson smiles behind the front desk for a photo. (Kaleb Unger/Leader)