Dr. Connie Bruce-Gilliam


A board-certified specialist pediatric dentist, Dr. Connie Bruce-Gilliam is a lively and energetic person- enjoying walking, biking, and yoga almost every day. Dr. Bruce is an ardent reader of all types of literature and loves lively book club discussions. She loves spending time and vacationing with her family- two lovely daughters and her husband- Dr. Maxwell Gilliam, General Dentist.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Connie loves the color green! Whether it’s a social function with her AKA sorority (go pink and green!), or caring for her live indoor plants, and outside flower garden- Dr. Connie is constantly engaged in some fun, extracurricular activity.

Dr. Bruce enjoys meeting and establishing relationships with her patients and patient’s parents.

She believes in the importance of the dentist-child patient rapport as a fundamental foundation for continued dental health and success throughout adolescent and adult years.

She inspires and uplifts children in and out of the office. She teaches Sunday School and believes in the importance of mentoring and motivating young people. Gilliam Dentisty normally  sponsors activities such as debutante balls, scholarship programs, and cheerleading camps.

Dr. Bruce has been a pediatric dentist for over 25 years. Her ambitious pursuits in the field has included receiving the prestigious title of Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, an honor awarded to an elite group of pediatric dentists whom have met and surpassed the academic requirements of excellence in the field.

Above all, Dr. Connie Bruce is an endearing and compassionate supporter of the younger, growing generation. She has found her life’s work and passion in the field of pediatric dentistry where she continues to warmly nurture the future leaders of our world!

Dr. Bruce grew up in Detroit, Michigan. She attended Howard University, Washington, D.C. until she completed all of her undergraduate and postgraduate studies. In 1987, she received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery. She completed her Internship and Residency at The District of Columbia General Hospital and the Hospital for Sick Children while concurrently completing all course work necessary to receive her Certificate in Pedodontics (pediatric Dentistry) in 1989.

Dr. Bruce stays abreast of all the latest and progressive dental practices and new technologies. She continually participates in Pediatric Dentistry and specialized training, so she can give her patients the very best in oral health care services. Dr. Bruce is an active member of numerous dental societies and organizations, including:

  • The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • North Carolina Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • The National Dental Association
  • The American Dental Association
  • The Old North State Dental Society
  • John Littman Medical Society

Dr. Bruce is a recognized and awarded active supporter in Onslow County. Her significant contributions include mentoring to teenagers, teaching Sunday School, volunteering in public schools, and environmental preservation.

She enjoys a well-rounded lifestyle which includes jogging, aerobics, and most importantly spending time with her husband and two daughters.

In the Community


In addition to providing excellent dental care for you and your family, Gilliam Dentistry prides itself in providing exceptional care within our community. Dr. Connie Bruce participates with the Missions of Mercy for the underserved citizens of North Carolina. Dr. Connie Bruce is the primary consultant for Carobell, a caring facility which oversees the daily life activities for persons with developmental disabilities. Dr. Connie Bruce also serves a provider and educator for the Early Headstart Program of Onslow County. Our office provides dental education through fun dental “skits” at daycare facilities, schools, and even Mom and social groups. We happily participate in local community health fairs in hopes of educating and promoting excellent oral health habits.

Gilliam Dentistry contributes to numerous non-profit organizations such as the March of Dimes, American Cancer Society, and the American Kidney Fund. We proudly volunteer with the Missions of Mercy (M.O.M) program and the Baptist Men’s Association which provides dental services for those in need at no cost. Dr. Connie Bruce presides as the A.K.A Sorority, Inc. Scholarship Chairperson. Annually scholarships are presented to deserving high school students based on academic integrity, and extracurricular activities within the community.

Gilliam Dentistry is an annual sponsor for Onslow County High Schools Project Graduation, and the St. Julia AMEZ After School and summer programs. Dr. Connie Bruce is a member of the Quality Control Council for Onslow County Board of Education. Dr. Maxwell and Dr. Connie Bruce both enjoy mentoring students- providing information and helping them to obtain careers in dentistry.