Ladd Dental Group

  Teeth grinding , medically known as bruxism , is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While many individuals might not even realize they're grinding their teeth—especially if they do it while sleeping—this seemingly harmless habit can lead to a host of dental and health problems. In this blog post, we'll dive into what teeth grinding is, why it occurs, and how it can cause significant issues if left untreated. What is Bruxism? Bruxism involves the involuntary grinding, gnashing, or clenching of teeth. It typically happens during sleep, though some people may grind their teeth while awake due to stress or anxiety. There are two main types: Sleep bruxism : Occurs during sleep and often goes unnoticed by the individual until symptoms arise. Awake bruxism : Occurs during the day, typically triggered by stress, frustration, or deep concentration. Why Do People Grind Their Teeth? Several factors contribute to teeth grinding : Stress and Anxiety : Emotiona

 Setting up a fully functional dental operatory requires a range of utilities and infrastructure to ensure smooth operations, patient comfort, and compliance with health regulations. Below are the key components and approximate costs associated with adding a new dental operatory: 1. Utilities and Infrastructure a. Electrical Power outlets for equipment like chairs, lights, curing lights, autoclaves, and X-ray machines. Dedicated circuits for high-power devices (X-ray units, air compressors, suction units). Backup power for critical equipment in case of power outages. Costs: ~$1,500 to $3,000, depending on existing electrical setup. b. Plumbing Water supply for sterilization, dental units, and handwashing. Drainage for dental sinks, evacuation systems, and sterilization areas. Compressed air for handpieces, air-water syringes, and cleaning systems. Costs: ~$2,000 to $5,000 for water, air, and suction lines. c. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Proper air circu

 Stellantis, one of the world's largest automakers, has had a challenging 2024. Despite its ambitious goals for electrification and sustainability, the company faced a series of setbacks that have affected its global performance—and, by extension, the Kokomo metro area. With Kokomo serving as a critical hub for Stellantis’ manufacturing operations, especially for transmissions and other automotive components, the company's disappointing year has raised concerns about the local economy, employment, and the future of the automotive industry in central Indiana. Here’s a closer look at Stellantis' underwhelming 2024 performance and its implications for Kokomo. 2024: A Year of Challenges for Stellantis Despite high hopes for innovation and growth, Stellantis struggled to meet expectations in 2024. Several factors contributed to this downturn, including economic pressures, operational challenges, and delays in the company’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs). While Stellanti

 The immigration situation in Logansport, Indiana, reflects broader trends in rural America, where many smaller communities have seen an influx of immigrants, particularly from Latin America, over the last few decades. Logansport , located in Cass County, has a significant Hispanic population that has grown substantially due to employment opportunities in local industries, especially agriculture and meatpacking. Here are some key factors shaping immigration in Logansport : 1. Employment Opportunities Tyson Foods Plant : The Tyson Foods pork processing plant in Logansport is one of the largest employers in the area. It has attracted a significant immigrant workforce, primarily from Mexico and Central America. Many immigrants have moved to Logansport to take up jobs in the plant and other agricultural businesses. Economic Impact : The immigrant community has helped sustain local industries and businesses, but there are also challenges related to integration, housing, and services. 2. Dem

 At LADD Dental Group of Westfield , we are always on the lookout for innovative solutions to enhance our patients' dental care experiences. One of the most exciting advancements in orthodontics is the SureSmile Clear Aligner system. These cutting-edge aligners are designed to deliver impressive results while offering unmatched comfort and convenience, making them a game-changer for anyone seeking a straighter smile. Our team at LADD Dental Group is thrilled to offer SureSmile Clear Aligners to our Westfield patients, and here’s why. Precision and Comfort SureSmile Clear Aligners are custom-designed using advanced 3D imaging technology, ensuring that every aligner fits perfectly to the patient's unique dental structure. This precision leads to more predictable and efficient treatment outcomes. Because they are designed to fit seamlessly over the teeth, patients experience greater comfort compared to traditional braces. Say goodbye to metal brackets and wires that can irrita

 A quality teeth cleaning , typically performed by a dental hygienist , involves several key steps to ensure thorough removal of plaque, tartar, and stains, as well as an overall assessment of oral health. Here’s what’s usually involved: 1. Oral Exam Assessment: Before the cleaning begins, the hygienist will examine your mouth using a small mirror to check for signs of inflamed gums, cavities, or other potential issues. They may take x-rays if necessary to get a clearer view of your teeth and gums. 2. Scaling (Plaque and Tartar Removal) Manual Tools/Ultrasonic Scaler: Plaque and tartar are removed from the surface of the teeth and around the gumline. Tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed with special tools. The hygienist will use either manual scalers or an ultrasonic tool with vibration and water spray to loosen the deposits. 3. Polishing Gritty Toothpaste: After scaling, the teeth are polished with a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste, designed to