- How many children do you have and what are their ages?
I have one child—Nicholas Grubelic and he is 17 years old…a senior at New Canaan High School and a talented soccer player. - What brought you and your family to town?
Having been out of Dental School and my pediatric dental residency for a few years, it was time to open on my own. At the time, my husband and I were living in Westchester and we decided to drive around CT to see where the need for a pediatric dentist was, and what the towns were like. We immediately fell in love with New Canaan and here we are! - What’s your favorite aspect about being part of the community?
My favorite aspect about being a part of the community is how strong the sense of connection and belonging is. How vibrant and welcoming the town is with its interactions and events. It’s charming and very dedicated to giving back!! - What’s your favorite family activity to do in the area?
Our favorite family activities are the 4th Of July Fireworks at Waveny and of course, the Sidewalk Sale…which I am a part of, and have been for 15 years! - Tell us about your career. Where did your interest in dentistry begin and how did you determine to specialize in pediatrics?
I didn’t think of dental school until halfway through my college education. At the time, I was working towards a degree to become a child psychologist. While in college, I was working part time with an oral surgeon. I just really liked seeing and talking to people—putting them at ease. It just kind of made sense that this was my field. Perfect combo…. psychology degree + dental degree = pediatric dentistry!
- Can you tell us more about your path to opening your own practice, New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry?
Though quite the challenge, opening and building my practice from scratch has been rewarding. It took a bit of time and planning. Leases, architects, designers, builders, electricians, plumbers, computer and software specialists, dental equipment specialists…etc. All while working full time at another practice and being a mom and wife. Once that was set up, months and months later, it was time to build the patient base. The best aspect of this? I consider it my baby and am proud. I created it, nurtured it and now am continuing to develop it my own way. - What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is when I see a patient on the street in town or at Elm Street Books and they come up to say hi and how excited they’re to come back to visit. It is so important to help children cultivate a positive relationship with their oral health, ensuring ease by visiting the dentist! I’ve done my job when they leave with a smile on their face and a balloon in their hands. Then when I see them on their way, as they grow out of the practice, it’s so bittersweet. - When working with families, what’s the one thing you hear most often from them?
There are so many things we hear from families daily that it’s hard to just pinpoint one. - Do you have advice for anyone considering a career in dentistry?
The best piece of advice for anyone considering a career in dentistry is to be prepared for lifelong journeys in learning and in professional development. While it is a very rigorous academic journey, the growth in dentistry never ends. This, to me, is the best part…. never a dull moment!! - What’s the best advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
The best advice I’ve gotten from another mom was to go to Baha Mar for vacation…LOL!! Best place ever!!
- How do you create a balance between work and motherhood?
Creating a balance between work and motherhood changes every single day. My son was only 2 when I was building out the space of my office. The challenges of building a practice while raising a child is tough—but also it is the greatest time. Niko was fortunate to witness my journey being a mom AND a business owner. I created a schedule that allowed me to be there for him, my office AND myself. Also…many trips to Elm Street Books…. reading is my superpower! - Any words of wisdom?
Honestly, the only words of wisdom I have are to be patient, mindful and authentic. It all goes by so quickly. Niko is about to start his senior year at New Canaan High School, and between building a business and being his mom, and of course a wife, I can hardly remember how I got here!! It’s a lot…but it’s all good. Lean in on your support system. In my case, this was my husband, Dennis. By far, my biggest cheerleader.
- Favorite place to have dinner/lunch—Locali/Dolce
- Grab a drink with friends—Spiga
- Have a date night—Elm
- Spend time together as a family indoors/outdoors—Mead Park and when my son was little— Waveny Pool
- Shop for yourself/kids—of course…. ELM STREET BOOKS and Wave
- Spa—Egia
- Nail salon—Echo Chic
- Grab coffee—of course ZUMBACHs—I love how hyperlocal and feel of community this place exudes!
- Favorite past time….just walking on Elm Street and Main Street on a lovely day…. seeing all the flags out around national holidays….the lights on the trees for Christmas and the scarecrows on the lampposts in the fall……our charming town—New Canaan.
Welcome to New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry, where Dr. Anna Simonis, Dr. Matos and her excellent team are dedicated to your child’s healthy smile. Dr. Anna looks forward to developing a strong relationship with your family and strives to deliver a pleasant and positive dental experience. Our spacious office is equipped with all the latest technology to provide you with excellent care and efficient, family-friendly service. The cheerful and fun waiting room has activities and games for kids, a beverage and coffee bar, and wireless Internet access.
For more information, visit us at www.newcanaanpediatricdentistry.com service.