Back To Blog

Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry Welcomes Chief Positivity Officer

July 26, 2024

At Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry in Ephrata, PA, Dr. Milca Mendez-Ceballos is dedicated to providing a safe and fun environment for young patients, ensuring their dental care is a positive experience. She understands that for children, a trip to the dentist can often be a source of anxiety. It's a new environment, filled with unfamiliar sounds and faces, which can trigger fear and apprehension. 

Dr. Milca believes in making dental care a positive experience, and that's where her unique approach comes in. She's created a practice where comfort and fun are paramount, and she's even appointed a special "Chief Positivity Officer" to help her achieve this goal.

While many businesses have a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or a Chief Operating Officer (COO), at Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry, we have something special: a Chief Positivity Officer (CPO). This isn't your average corporate title - it's a role filled with wagging tails, warm cuddles, and unconditional love. This unique approach is making a world of difference for our little patients.

Meet Belle, the Chief Positivity Officer

Belle isn't just a furry friend - she's the heart and soul of Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Milca's "daughter", Belle, has been a part of the practice since she was a puppy, growing up alongside her mother's passion for pediatric dentistry. Dr. Milca always envisioned Belle as a therapy dog, knowing that her gentle nature and love for people would bring a unique and calming presence to the office.

As Belle grew, she received extensive training to become a certified therapy dog. She completed her puppy training with Dr. Milca and continued her training at Alpha Pax in Elizabethtown, where she learned to handle various scenarios and become a true comfort companion. Belle now holds both her therapy certification and her Good Citizen Award, solidifying her credentials as a true professional.

Belle's Impact on Patients

The impact Belle has had on patients and their families is immeasurable. She's a calming presence in a potentially stressful environment. Her wagging tail and warm cuddles can soothe anxieties and make even the most apprehensive child feel comfortable.

"For some children, it's just nice to know there is a dog here," shares Dr. Milca. "It can serve as a distraction for them if they're just not ready to do something." Often, children who might be hesitant to show their teeth after a fall will gladly open up to Belle, allowing for a more comfortable and successful assessment. Belle has also become a source of comfort for families, providing a friendly face and unconditional love in a sometimes overwhelming setting.

How Belle Makes a Difference

Belle's gentle nature and calming presence make a world of difference for children at Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry. For those who might be nervous about a dental procedure, Belle offers a comforting and reassuring companion. A child who might be apprehensive about sitting in the dental chair often finds solace in Belle's warm cuddles. Her presence can ease anxieties and create a sense of calm, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Belle isn't just a comforting presence; she has a playful personality that brings a smile to everyone's face. She loves to interact with patients, often greeting them with a wagging tail and eager to receive a gentle pat. Her gentle nature allows her to approach children with sensitivity, offering a comforting presence for those who might be feeling nervous or scared.

Belle's role in the practice extends beyond simply providing comfort. She's also a valuable tool for Dr. Milca.

"Usually kids don't want to show me their teeth right after a fall," Dr. Milca explains. "But they usually do want to show Belle, so we use that time to get our photos and assess how they are healing." Belle's presence helps to create a more relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for Dr. Milca to capture clear photos and assess the situation. Her presence brings a unique and heartwarming element to the practice, helping to create a truly Pawsitive experience for all.

Are you and your child ready to meet Belle?

In a world where children are often bombarded with anxieties and fears, Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry offers a unique and heartwarming solution: Belle, the Chief Positivity Officer. Having a therapy dog like Belle in a pediatric dental practice is truly a game changer. Her presence brings a sense of comfort, joy, and security that can transform the often-stressful experience into a positive and even enjoyable one.

Belle's impact on the practice has been remarkable. Her gentle nature and calming presence have made a tangible difference in the lives of countless young patients. She's a reminder that even in a medical setting, compassion, love, and a wagging tail can go a long way in making a child feel safe and cared for. Belle is a testament to the power of human-animal bonds, and she's a true asset to the Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry team, making every visit a truly Pawsitive experience.

Schedule an appointment at with our pediatric dentist in Ephrata, PA, and let Belle work her magic on your little ones. Call us today at (717) 219-4214 to learn more about our practice and the heartwarming impact of our Chief Positivity Officer. We're excited to welcome you and your family to Pawsitive Pediatric Dentistry!

recent posts

Why Regular Dental Checkups are Essential for Kids (and How Pawsitive Makes It Easy!)

Hey there, parents! Let's talk about those little chompers and how to keep them healthy and happy.

Continue Reading

4 Ways to Keep Your Kids' Teeth Healthy

Parents, giving your children the best start in life means taking care of their health, and that includes their amazing smiles!

Continue Reading

Making Your Little One's First Dentist Visit a Pawsitive Experience

You know that dental appointments can be a little nerve-wracking for parents, especially when it's your little one's first time. Will they cry? Will they be scared?

Continue Reading

Unleash Their
Healthiest Smile