Meet Dr. Gabe Dawson
Specialists
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Gabe Dawson is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a fourth-generation Kalispell, Montana native who is proud to serve families in the community he calls home. With advanced pediatric specialty training and extensive hospital-based experience, Dr. Gabe is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care for infants, children, teens, and patients with special healthcare needs.
Dr. Gabe believes that positive dental experiences early in life play a critical role in a child’s long-term health and confidence — and he strives to make every visit comfortable, educational, and encouraging.
Education
Education
Montana Roots & Education
Dr. Gabe’s connection to the Flathead Valley runs deep. After graduating from Flathead High School, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from Montana State University. He then went on to complete dental school at the University of Washington School of Dentistry in Seattle.
It was during dental school that Dr. Gabe discovered his passion for working with children and made the decision to pursue pediatric dentistry as his specialty.
Pediatric Specialty
Advanced Pediatric Specialty Training
This hospital-based training allows Dr. Gabe to provide care with an exceptional level of clinical confidence, precision, and safety.
Dr. Gabe completed his pediatric dentistry residency at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, one of the top pediatric hospitals in the country ranked:
- #7 nationally for pediatric hospitals overall
- #5 nationally for pediatric cancer care
During his residency, Dr. Gabe trained alongside world-renowned faculty & gained extensive experience in:
- Pediatric dental trauma & emergency care
- Orthodontics and growth guidance
- Dental sedation and general anesthesia
- Hospital dentistry
- Treating children with complex medical conditions
- Caring for children with special healthcare needs, including cancer & advanced heart conditions
Certification
Board Certification
Board Certification & Professional Leadership
Dr. Gabe is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, demonstrating advanced expertise and a commitment to the highest standards of pediatric dental care.
He is an active member of:
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- Montana Dental Association
- American Dental Association
In addition to private practice, Dr. Gabe serves as the pediatric dentist for the Montana Cleft Clinic, helping care for children with craniofacial conditions such as cleft lip and palate. He has also worked as a pediatric dentist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s 22q Center, which specializes in treating children with complex craniofacial anomalies.
His approach is thoughtful, evidence-based, and always centered around the child’s comfort and well-being.
Areas
Areas of Clinical Focus
Dr. Gabe provides comprehensive pediatric dental care, with particular experience in:
- Preventive and restorative pediatric dentistry
- Laser dentistry, including tongue-tie and lip-tie evaluation & treatment
- Sedation dentistry for anxious or young patients
- Special needs pediatric dentistry
- Dental trauma and emergency care
- Hospital-based and medically complex dental cases
Philosophy
Centered Philosophy
A Parent-First, Child- Centered Philosophy
Dr. Gabe believes that parents should always feel informed, respected, and confident in their child’s care. He takes time to listen to concerns, explain findings clearly, and discuss treatment options without pressure.
By partnering with families and building trust, Dr. Gabe helps children develop positive associations with dental care — laying the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.
Life Outside
Life Outside the Office
When he’s not caring for patients, Dr. Gabe enjoys spending time outdoors with his family. He can often be found hiking in Glacier National Park or swimming at Ashley Lake, making the most of Montana’s natural beauty.
Care Begins
Schedule an Appointment With Dr. Gabe
Dr. Gabe looks forward to welcoming your family to Big Sky Pediatric Dentistry and helping your child feel confident and comfortable at every visit.
info@bigskypediatricdentistry.com
E-mail address
(406) 752-8302
Call Us Phone
Request an appointment today to meet Dr. Gabe