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Your Child's Trusted Dental Partner in Kalispell, MT
Big Sky Pediatric Dentistry is a specialized pediatric dental practice dedicated to providing personalized oral healthcare for infants, children, teens, and youth with special needs. Led by board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. Gabe Dawson, Dr. Kim, and Dr. Ryan, our team combines advanced training in pediatric dentistry with a compassionate approach to create a fun and welcoming environment. We utilize cutting-edge technologies like CO2 laser treatments for tongue/lip ties and offer comprehensive services including sedation dentistry, orthodontics, and emergency care.Our mission focuses on establishing lifelong healthy habits through preventive care, patient education, and family-centered treatment planning. With multiple Montana locations in Kalispell, Whitefish, Libby, and Polson, we partner with parents to ensure every dental visit builds trust and confidence while maintaining the highest clinical standards.
Services
Laser Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry
Preventive Care
Orthodontics
Special Needs Dentistry
Emergency Care
Dental Sealants
Tooth Extractions
Fluoride Treatments
Nightguards
Highlights and features
- Board-certified pediatric dentists with specialized training
- Advanced CO2 laser technology for precise procedures
- Comprehensive sedation options for anxious patients
- Family-friendly environment with child-centered care
- Special needs dentistry expertise for diverse patient needs
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Services
Laser Dentistry
Our CO2 laser technology enables precise, sedation-free procedures for tongue and lip ties. This advanced approach minimizes discomfort while ensuring quick recovery times. We specialize in treating infants through teens, addressing feeding difficulties and speech impediments caused by oral restrictions. The procedure's precision preserves healthy tissue while fully releasing restrictions.
Sedation Dentistry
We offer three sedation methods: nitrous oxide, conscious sedation, and outpatient general anesthesia. These options cater to anxious patients, young children, and special needs individuals. Our board-certified team carefully evaluates each case to determine the safest, most effective sedation approach while maintaining strict monitoring protocols throughout treatment.
Preventive Care
Regular exams and cleanings form the foundation of lifelong oral health. Our preventive program includes fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and personalized hygiene instruction. We educate children on proper brushing techniques while monitoring dental development to intercept potential issues early through age-appropriate, engaging patient education.
Special Needs Dentistry
Our practice specializes in treating children with developmental disabilities, medical complexities, and sensory sensitivities. We implement customized treatment plans, sensory-friendly environments, and advanced behavior management techniques. The team's experience includes caring for patients with craniofacial anomalies, chronic medical conditions, and autism spectrum disorders through compassionate, individualized approaches.
Orthodontics
We provide early orthodontic interventions and comprehensive braces treatment for children and teens. Our approach focuses on correcting bite issues, aligning teeth, and optimizing facial development. Treatment options include traditional metal braces, clear aligners, and space maintainers to ensure proper dental arch development and functional occlusion.
People
Dr. Gabe Dawson
Pediatric Dentist
Fourth-generation Kalispell native and board-certified pediatric dentist. Completed residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital with advanced training in trauma care, sedation, and special needs dentistry. Active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Montana Dental Association.
Dr. Kim
Pediatric Dentist
Experienced pediatric dentist with specialized training in laser procedures and child behavior management. Focuses on creating positive dental experiences for young patients while implementing evidence-based preventive care strategies.
Dr. Ryan
Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric dental specialist with expertise in sedation dentistry and treatment of dental trauma. Committed to providing comprehensive care for children with complex medical histories and developmental challenges through individualized treatment planning.
Questions
When should my child's first dental visit occur?
The American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends scheduling the first checkup when the first tooth appears or by age one.
What sedation options are available for anxious children?
We offer nitrous oxide, conscious sedation, and outpatient general anesthesia tailored to each child's specific needs and treatment requirements.
How do you handle dental emergencies after hours?
Our team provides emergency care guidance through our on-call system and accommodates urgent cases during regular business hours.
What makes pediatric dentists different from general dentists?
Pediatric dentists complete two additional years of specialized training focusing exclusively on children's dental development, behavior management, and treatment of complex pediatric dental issues.
Do you treat children with special healthcare needs?
Yes, our team has specialized training and equipment to provide comprehensive dental care for children with developmental disabilities and chronic medical conditions.
