Dr. Chris is a board certified pediatric dentist who takes pride in building relationships with patients and their families to help provide positive early dental experiences for children. He has over a decade of experience serving patients in both New York and Connecticut and is excited to be a part of the Greenwich community.
Dr. Chris graduated from Boston College’s Honors Program with a Bachelor of Science in Biology (Go Eagles!). He then attended the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, where he was elected Class President. Following his time at UConn (Go Huskies!), Dr. Chris completed his specialty training in pediatric dentistry at Columbia University/New York Presbyterian Hospital where he served as Chief Resident. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
In addition to his career in private practice, Dr. Chris is a clinical professor at Columbia University’s College of Dental Medicine where he serves as an instructor and mentor to dental students and residents in training. He lives in Rye, NY with his wife, Sophie, and their two daughters, Birdie and Lily.
We’re delighted to welcome Dr. Chris Gibson to our practice! After 20 years of an all female trio team, we’re excited to add Dr. Chris to the family. We can’t wait for you to meet our Greenwich Pediatric Dental Dad. – Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group
Can you please tell us a bit about yourself personally?
I grew up north of Boston, went to Boston College, and love all Boston sports (this will age much better if the Pats win the Super Bowl…fingers crossed!). I went to UConn Dental, did my pediatric dentistry residency at Columbia, and have been in the area ever since. My wife Sophie and I have two young daughters, Birdie (6) and Lily (2), and we love going to the beach, traveling, and movie nights at home as a family.
Where do you live and what do you love about working in Greenwich?
My wife and I moved up to Rye, NY in Fall of 2023 after living in Manhattan for nearly a decade. We loved our time in the city, but as a kid who grew up in the suburbs, it was nice to be back in an area with a more small-town feel. I am excited to have the opportunity to work in a beautiful town like Greenwich and make a positive impact on the community.
How did you come to practice at Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group? What is your professional background?
After completing dental school at UConn and my residency training at Columbia/New York Presbyterian, I have been practicing pediatric dentistry in southern Connecticut and Westchester for nearly a decade. In addition to private practice, I’m an assistant clinical professor at Columbia College of Dental Medicine where I teach and mentor students and residents.
What age should children typically start thinking about seeing a dentist? What are the best early habits we can form for our kids around dental health?
It is recommended that children start seeing a dentist by their first birthday or when their baby teeth begin to erupt. Early visits allow for preventative care and establishing a dental home. Creating a nighttime brushing routine is key. It doesn’t have to be perfect every night, but it’s all about developing consistency and healthy habits!
How do you make a visit to the dentist fun and easy for the kids?
Just being able to get on their level and make them feel comfortable and at ease. Crack some jokes, have some fun, and always end the appointment with a goodie bag!
3 tips for parents whose kids do not like to floss?
1. Start slow (a few times a week is a good place to start… manageable goals!)
2. Teamwork! Let your child have a turn, and then make sure to let an adult get in there to help out.
3. Pair flossing time w/ a favorite song!
What do you find the most rewarding parts of being a dentist?
Having a young child come into the office full of anxiety and nerves for their initial dental visit, and then leaving with a smile on their face and a newfound confidence about coming to the dental office is a wonderful feeling. It’s all about creating positive early dental experiences in order to help facilitate a lifetime of good oral health.
How do you balance work and being a parent?
It takes a village! My wife and I have a wonderful support system, including family in the area, and working close to home makes it easier to be home in time to help with homework and bedtime.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another parent?
“The days are long but the years are short” is cliche, but it’s true! When I’m with my kids, I really try to put the phone away and stay in the moment.
What do you like to do to relax / have fun for yourself and as a family?
I am a big Boston sports fan, so if there’s a game on, I love to watch! In the summers, we love to spend time at the beach! We spend every free Summer weekend at my parent’s house on the North Shore of Massachusetts. We’ve also started to explore the beaches in the area and are open to recommendations!
Anything else you’d like to share?
Looking forward to seeing you at the office!!
