Pediatric dentist opens 'kid-friendly' office in Derby

A dental office has opened at 36 Division St., Derby.

DERBY - A play area in the waiting room, brightly colored walls, and cartoon character signs all add up to an innovative and welcoming space for a pediatric dental office.

Dr. Julia Bonks, owner of ConnectiKIDZ, hosted a grand opening celebration Monday in the former Captain's Pizza restaurant site at 36 Division St.

Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell noted Mayor Anita Dugatto, who was on hand for the celebration, is also a dentist. 

"The message here for you, Julia, is that you too can be mayor," Purcell said with a smile.

From left: Dr. Kenneth Dobuler, chair, Department of Medicine at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Dr. Roman Spivak, pulmonologist and critical care specialist and husband of Dr. Julia Bonks, pediatric dentist, and Derby Mayor Anita Dugatto, also a dentist, cut a ribbon Monday in the office.

Dugatto said there is a need for dentists in the area. She congratulated Bonks and welcomed her to Derby.

Bonks is an active member of the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce as well as the Health Council for the Greater Valley Region. She is a medical staff member at Griffin Hospital where she holds privileges in providing pediatric dental care.

Bonks' husband, Dr. Roman Spivak, said they tried to make the space as "child friendly" as possible. 

Spivak said he's a Russian immigrant and his wife immigrated from Latvia.
"We came as immigrants and we're here to stay, to serve, and to make friends. The Chamber (of Commerce) has been
more than accommodating," he said. 
"This is our American Dream," Spivak added. "We're touched by the turnout and we're ready to work."

Vibrant colors are found throughout the office space.

And cute signs aimed at the young set dot the walls.

And my favorite:

On Friday Bonks will hold a Give Kids a Smile Day screening event.

You can read all about it here: