What happens in our mouth affects our body and vice versa. That interconnection means that by helping people achieve a healthier smile Im also helping them develop a healthier body and find more enjoyment in life.

As a general dentist, in a family-friendly practice, I love caring for multiple generations and enjoy my conversations with each person. Whether Im seeing a toddler at a first visit, improving their parents smile, or restoring function so their grandparent is able to eat the foods they want, Im always focused on the persons situation and whats best for them.

I am proud to work alongside my husband, Dr. Danny Cepeda, and our amazing team at North Appleton Dentistry. Our office has an amazingly positive and welcoming feeling to it, filled with laughter and smiles. Our patients are an extension of our family and we genuinely care about the wellbeing and happiness of each person who comes through our door.

I attended Marquette University School of Dentistry for my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Marquettes dental program is one of the most challenging and respected in the country. I graduated with an excellent understanding of the fundamental science and art of dentistry.

However, like all areas of healthcare, our field is constantly evolving. The development of new dental techniques, advancements in technology, and research into new materials is happening at a breathtaking speed. It is my responsibility to stay current on these changes.

Throughout the year I complete many continuing dental education courses, attend meetings and lectures, and participate in hands-on seminars. I also read a range of peer-reviewed journals and other professional publications, learning about new processes and studying research.

I was born and raised in Neenah, met Danny in dental school, and once graduated settled back in my hometown. Danny and I recently adopted a doggie we named Stella: she may make an appearance at the office from time to time!

For me, being a dentist is about making a difference for the people in my community. When a person has strong oral health, their bodily health is strengthened and when they have a smile they love, they have stronger self-esteem and confidence.

Dentistry is more than working on and fixing teeth: its caring for the person and helping each as they achieve their dental goals. At the same time, were building a connection based on trust, respect, and communication.

I was drawn to dentistry at a very young age. My father is a general dentist in Florida and I grew up watching him, and eventually assisting in his practice, as he cared for patients. I saw how he listened to each patient, respected their concerns, and helped improve their quality of life. I knew, early on, that I wanted to do the same.

It is amazing to spend my days working alongside my wife, Dr. Emily Ruthven, and this remarkable team. Were united in our desire to provide the best dental experience, the strongest results, and most welcoming and supportive environment.

Our patients respond to our warmth and friendliness, taking us into their confidences and sharing their stories. Its amazing to care for everyone in a family, from the toddlers through great-grandparents, and be included in their lives. I cannot imagine a more fulfilling way to spend my days!

I completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of Florida and then a Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Marquette University School of Dentistry. After graduating from dental school, I attended Wichita State University, where I completed a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry. This residency honed my skills and broadened my knowledge of general dentistry.

Each year I complete a wide range of post-graduate continuing dental education courses. These classes keep me at the leading-edge of new techniques, materials, technology, and research, so Im able to provide patients with the highest level of advanced care. I also attend meetings, lectures, and seminars, and read many dental journals, too.

I enjoy getting to know my patients, learning their dental needs, and working with them to meet those needs. It means a lot to me to have built great relationships with my patients and I love the friendships weve grown over the years.

My job is to help patients with their oral health. While addressing everything from routine cleanings to treating periodontal disease, I focus on education. By teaching patients about their oral and overall health, I help them make educated decisions and develop healthier habits.

Outside the office, I enjoy the great outdoors. Over the years Ive enjoyed bow and gun hunting during deer seasons, hobby farming, and searching out beautiful waterfalls. I have three children and were always seeking out new opportunities and new adventures.

I like getting to know generation after generation of family members and helping each with their dental needs. Its fulfilling to see families grow and change, hear about their adventures and plans, and share in their lives.

My husband Dan and I have three daughters, a son, and a grandson, granddaughter, and another granddaughter due in February 2018. I also have a Hungarian Vizsla, Addy. Outside of work, I enjoy kayaking, fishing, grouse hunting, golfing, photography, bird watching, watching sports and most of all time with my kids and grandkids.

I love getting to know our patients and helping make their dental experience with us as easy and comfortable as possible. We have a wonderful patient family and I really like getting to know every person. Its fun to hear whats happened since their last visit and share stories of my own.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my husband, our two daughters and friends. You can find us at our family cottage during summer months boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, enjoying the summer nights and in winter months ice fishing and snowmobiling taking in the Wisconsin weather. We are an avid Wisconsin sports family; we enjoy watching professionals sports and watching our daughters play sports.

I really like working with our patients, doing my best to make sure they have a relaxed and comfortable visit. At the end of a procedure, when someone thanks me for making it easy for them, Im thrilled!

My job covers an extensive range of duties. I assist the doctors with the many different treatments we provide and make sure our patient is comfortable and ready for their procedure. I take X-rays and impressions and work behind the scenes, too, handling in-office lab work, sterilization, and making sure the rooms are stocked and ready.

I grew up in Wisconsin, lived in Anchorage, AK for 22 years, and moved back to the area several years ago to be closer to family. I enjoyed all that Alaska offered but am now thrilled to be home with my loved ones.

I work in the clinic, assisting the doctors with an array of dental procedures and offering patient care. I also take and pour cast models, sterilize tools and equipment, and provide a lot of patient education.

I spend my time away from work with my spouse and two kids. We love spending time outdoors. In the summer we love to fish and go boating with friends. In winter we have fun snowmobiling around the yard, ice-skating, and sledding.

Stella has been with North Appleton Dentistry since puppyhood. At a young age Stella was trained with Drs. Ruthven and Cepeda at Fox Valley Humane Association for her Therapy Dog Certification and also her canine good citizenship!

This accomplishment of Stellas is exciting as she has quite the background in her young years already. Stella was originally born in the South. There she didnt have the loving family life one would expect for a young puppy and ended up in a shelter.

Our local shelter, Fox Valley Humane Association, runs a program called the Bark Bus where Stella was chosen from an overcrowded southern shelter and picked up to come find her home here in the Fox Valley!! We are so happy she did!! Stella was chosen to be in a program called REBOUND that is also run by the Fox Valley Humane Association, where she could channel all her energy into becoming the well behaved, lovable, and trained therapy dog she is! Stella has found her home with Drs. Ruthven and Cepeda and her calling as North Appleton Dentistrys Therapy Dog.

Stella is Golden Retriever mixed w/ Border Collie and has become accustomed to all things dental! People, sounds of the office, children playing around her and everyone wanting to get to know her! Therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort and affection and she adds that perfect complement to our dental practice.

Stella has a great affection for people and loves to give friendly hellos and companionship in high hopes of getting a belly rub in return and easing any anxious feelings you may have. She will greet everyone in the office, but if you or your family is not accustomed to dogs or would prefer to not have Stella near, the team at North Appleton Dentistry is happy to make arrangements to respect your preferences.

Fun fact about Stella; she is a good sailor and has a pink mermaid lifejacket just for the occasion when she is out on the boat with our doctors. Stella brings out lots of smiles, which we of course love to see, and we look forward to her greeting you when you come through the doors of North Appleton Dentistry.

Dr. Daniel Cepeda and Dr. Emily Ruthven are skilled and gentle dentists. Just as important, theyre kind and compassionate, caring about each patient on a personal level. Along with our team, our doctors are committed to delivering high-quality care in a welcoming, safe atmosphere, where you feel like part of our family.

Our doctors and team members never forget that were caring for a person. Were all passionate about dental health and the role it plays in our lives. We want to be your partners in your journey to wellness, helping you achieve a wonderful smile and teaching you how to keep it healthy for years to come!

Our Appleton, WI dental office has served Freedom, Black Creek, Shiocton, Seymour,and surrounding communities since 1981. Were looking forward to meeting you and your loved ones and welcoming everyone to our dental family. Together, well help you achieve that incredible smile you deserve and build a friendship in the process!