Ladd Dental Group

 At LADD Dental Group , we’ve always believed that a dental visit should be more than just about your teeth—it should be about your whole experience. That’s why we’re especially grateful for one of the most unique and caring members of our team: our dental service dog, Ana . Ana has a gift for making people feel calm, safe, and cared for. Dental visits can bring on stress or anxiety for many patients, but when Ana greets you with her gentle presence, it’s hard not to feel more at ease. Whether she’s sitting quietly by your side, offering a paw for reassurance, or just sharing her calming energy, Ana helps create a soothing environment for dental patients of all ages. We’re so thankful for the way Ana brightens our dental office every time she visits. She reminds us that dentistry is not only about clinical excellence but also about compassion, comfort, and human connection. Patients tell us time and again how much they appreciate her, and we couldn’t agree more—Ana truly ma...

 Coca-Cola may be one of the most recognizable brands in the world, but behind the fizz and flavor lies a serious risk to your dental health . While enjoying a soda occasionally might seem harmless, frequent consumption of Coke can cause lasting damage to your teeth . Here’s why. 1. Loaded with Sugar A single 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola contains around 39 grams of sugar —that’s nearly 10 teaspoons. When sugar sits on your teeth , bacteria in your mouth feed on it, producing acid as a byproduct. These acids erode your tooth enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay over time. 2. High Acidity Coke isn’t just sugary; it’s also highly acidic. With a pH of around 2.5 , Coca-Cola is more acidic than coffee and not far off from vinegar. Acid softens and weakens enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. Even diet sodas, which don’t contain sugar, still have high acidity that can wear down enamel. 3. Stains and Discoloration The dark color of Coca-Cola ca...

 A confident smile can open doors, spark connections, and leave lasting impressions. Yet, for many people, crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth can hold them back from showing their smile with pride. The good news? Today’s modern dentistry offers a discreet, effective solution— clear aligners . Why Your Smile Matters Your smile isn’t just about looks—it’s about confidence. Studies have shown that people who smile often are perceived as more approachable, trustworthy, and successful. But if you feel self-conscious about your teeth , you may find yourself covering your mouth or holding back from fully expressing joy. That’s where clear aligners step in to make a difference. The Benefits of Clear Aligners Clear aligners are custom-made trays that gently move your teeth into their ideal positions over time. Unlike traditional braces, they’re nearly invisible and can be removed when you eat, brush, or floss. Here’s why they’re such a popular choice: Discreet Treatment – Str...

 When people think about staying healthy, they often focus on diet, exercise, or regular medical checkups. But oral health is just as important to your overall well-being. A healthy smile is more than just about looks—it’s a reflection of your body’s overall health. Why Oral Health Matters Your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory systems, and it’s home to countless bacteria—most harmless, but some that can cause disease. Without good oral hygiene , harmful bacteria can grow, leading to infections, tooth decay , gum disease, and even systemic issues throughout the body. Research has shown strong connections between poor oral health and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. Simply put: taking care of your mouth helps take care of your whole body. Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene Prevents Cavities & Tooth Loss – Daily brushing and flossing help remove plaque, the sticky film that leads to decay an...

 A growing dental care crisis in the U.S. is pushing oral health to a tipping point. Nearly 27% of adults lack dental insurance —nearly triple the percentage of those without medical coverage. Low Medicaid reimbursement rates and the continued separation of dentistry from general health insurance have created deep access gaps, especially in underserved communities. At LADD Dental Group , we believe everyone deserves access to quality, compassionate dental care —and we are committed to being part of the solution. Here are a few ways we are working to break down barriers and improve access: ✅ Accepting Medicaid & State Programs – Unlike many dental offices , our practices proudly accept Medicaid, ensuring that low-income families and children can still receive preventive and restorative care. ✅ In-House Dental Discount Plan – For patients without insurance, we offer our own membership plan that provides affordable coverage options and discounts on treatment—helping bridge ...

 At LADD Dental Group , one of our greatest strengths lies in the dedication our providers have to continuous learning and growth. Dentistry is always advancing, and we believe that staying on the cutting edge allows us to serve our patients with the highest level of care. That’s why we are so grateful for Dr. Brett Gilbert and his incredible Access Endo Impact Academy . Our team of dentists recently had the opportunity to learn and grow through Dr. Gilbert’s program, and the experience was nothing short of inspiring. The academy not only provided advanced knowledge in endodontics, but also created a space for collaboration, critical thinking, and clinical confidence. What made the experience even more special was having our providers go through it together. When our dentists can share new skills, learn from one another, and build on the same foundation of continuing education, it elevates the entire group. This sense of shared growth strengthens our team and ultimately benefi...

  What’s Changing—and When October 14, 2025 marks the official end of support for Windows 10, meaning Microsoft will no longer provide security patches, feature updates, or technical assistance. A one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available, extending updates until October 13, 2026 for eligible devices—either via payment (approx. $30 per device for consumers, potentially escalating for businesses) or through enrollment using Microsoft accounts or Rewards points. Key Impacts on Dental Practices & Imaging Equipment 1. Security Vulnerabilities & HIPAA Compliance Dental offices handle sensitive patient data. Unsupported OS = extremely high risk . Without security patches, these systems become prime targets for malware and ransomware. Moreover, dental practices that store Protected Health Information (PHI) must comply with HIPAA. Systems running an unsupported OS could render the practice non-compliant, bringing legal and financial penalties. ...

 When choosing a family dentist , there are a few key things you want to look for: 1. Comprehensive Care for All Ages A true family dentist should be able to care for everyone in your household—from children getting their first checkups, to adults requiring restorative or cosmetic dentistry . This saves families from running to multiple offices. 2. Convenience and Accessibility Location, flexible scheduling, and the ability to see multiple family members in one visit matter a lot for busy households. 3. Advanced Technology & Comfort Modern tools like digital X-rays, intraoral scanners, and AI-supported diagnostics can make visits quicker, more accurate, and less stressful. Comfort-focused amenities also help ease dental anxiety . 4. Preventive Focus with Personalized Care Preventive care and education are essential for long-term oral health. A family dentist should explain treatment options clearly, making sure patients understand and feel confident in their care plan...

 Finding the right dentist for your family isn’t just about cleanings and checkups—it’s about trust, comfort, and knowing you have a team who genuinely cares for your oral health. At LADD Dental Group of Huntington , we’re proud to be part of this wonderful community, providing personalized, high-quality dental care for patients of all ages. Here are a few reasons why Huntington families love our team: 1. Comprehensive Care Under One Roof From routine cleanings and cavity fillings to advanced treatments like dental implants , crowns, and dentures, our skilled team can meet your family’s full range of dental needs . We even offer cosmetic dentistry options, so you can keep your smile as bright as it is healthy. 2. Led by a Trusted Local Dentist Dr. Kevin Deakyne leads our Huntington office with the perfect blend of skill, compassion, and hometown pride. Patients appreciate his friendly approach and his commitment to making sure everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—feels com...

 The Treaty with the Potawatomi (signed on October 16, 1826 ) is a landmark agreement in the early history of Wabash, Indiana and the state of Indiana as a whole . Though often referred to in the context of 1827 due to its impact timeline, the treaty was signed at the Mississinewa River , just north of present-day Wabash. 📜 Overview of the Treaty with the Potawatomi (1826) Who was involved? United States government Potawatomi tribe (primarily), with some involvement from the Miami and other nearby tribes U.S. officials: Lewis Cass , James B. Ray (Governor of Indiana), and John Tipton Where was it signed? On the Mississinewa River , in the area now known as Wabash County, Indiana What land was ceded? The Potawatomi gave up millions of acres of land in northern and central Indiana , especially between the Wabash and Tippecanoe Rivers , including areas around today’s Wabash , Peru , and Logansport . 📌 Significance to Wabash and the State of ...

  Family dental care refers to dental services that address the oral health needs of patients at every stage of life —from young children to seniors—all in one convenient location. It's a comprehensive approach to dentistry that focuses on preventive, restorative, and sometimes cosmetic care for the entire family. 🦷 What Services Are Typically Included? Family dental care often includes: Routine cleanings and exams Fluoride treatments and sealants (for kids) Cavity fillings Crowns and bridges Dentures and partials Periodontal (gum) care Emergency dental services Education on home oral hygiene ✅ Patient Benefits of Family Dental Care: 1. Convenience One dental office for the whole family = fewer appointments, less travel, simplified scheduling. 2. Continuity of Care Dentists get to know your family’s dental history over time, improving diagnosis and treatment plans. 3. Early Detection Regular visits help catch issues early—especi...

 Here are several high-quality studies linking dental /oral health to Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline: 🧠 1. Periodontitis & Brain Imaging Markers of Alzheimer's A study involving 468 participants from the WHICAP cohort found that clinical signs of gum disease correlated with MRI markers typical of Alzheimer’s and cognitive aging.  Researchers propose that chronic inflammation from periodontitis may contribute to brain changes over time. 2. Umbrella Review: Oral Health & Dementia This comprehensive review of eight systematic studies confirmed consistent associations between poor oral health —like plaque buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease—and worsened cognition in dementia patients. The link is largely attributed to systemic inflammation from oral pathogens. 3. Longitudinal Tooth Loss Study in Taiwan A 2025 clinical study in Taiwan examined older adults across Alzheimer's spectrum stages (subjective decline to AD). Results showed that losin...

 At LADD Dental Group , we are beyond excited and deeply grateful to welcome Dr. Noah Barrett to our growing dental family! Dr. Barrett is a compassionate, skilled, and dedicated dental professional who brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to excellence in patient care. He is a proud graduate of the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine , Class of 2023. Following dental school, Dr. Barrett further honed his clinical skills and broadened his scope of care by completing a PGY-1 General Practice Residency (GPR) at the Malcom Randall Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center . This experience provided him with invaluable training in treating medically complex patients, working with specialists, and delivering comprehensive dental care in a collaborative, hospital-based setting. Dr. Barrett strongly believes in delivering the highest-quality dental care to each and every patient. His approach is centered around respect, empathy, and a genuine desire to ...

 In one of the most talked-about dental developments of 2025, Delta Dental of Wisconsin has acquired the dental support organization (DSO) Cherry Tree Dental, with over 40 affiliated practices —a move that is sending ripples through the industry. As one of the nation’s largest regional dental insurers takes its first step into practice ownership, it raises critical questions about the future of clinical autonomy, competition, and the evolving relationship between providers and payers. 🏢 A Payer-Owned DSO? Here's What Happened Delta Dental of Wisconsin, known for providing dental benefits to millions of Americans, purchased a mid-sized regional DSO operating across several states in the Midwest . This move marks a strategic shift toward vertical integration —where the insurer is no longer just processing claims, but now directly controlling patient treatment through clinic ownership . This isn't just a business deal. It's a redefining moment in dentistry . 🔍 What ...

 At LADD Dental Group , we take great pride in providing compassionate, high-quality care to every patient who walks through our doors—and that begins with the people who wear the LADD name. That’s why we’re incredibly excited and grateful to officially welcome Dr. Noah Barrett to our Logansport dental family! Dr. Barrett brings a refreshing blend of clinical excellence, kindness, and a patient-first mindset that perfectly aligns with our mission. His dedication to dentistry is matched only by his commitment to building lasting relationships with his patients. He believes in listening first, treating with empathy, and making each patient feel confident and cared for every step of the way. Since joining our team, Dr. Barrett has already made a meaningful impact—not just through his dental expertise, but through his genuine approach to teamwork and community. Whether he’s mentoring a team member, explaining treatment options to a patient, or simply greeting someone with a smile...

 At LADD Dental Group , we believe that the quality of care we provide to our patients is a direct reflection of the partnerships we cultivate behind the scenes. One of the most impactful relationships we’ve developed over the years has been with Patterson Dental —a trusted partner who continues to help us deliver on our promise of excellence across all of our practices. From the beginning, Patterson has gone beyond simply being a supplier. They’ve become a strategic ally—offering invaluable support, innovative solutions, and reliable service that empowers our entire team to focus on what matters most: providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care to the communities we serve. Whether it’s cutting-edge equipment, digital technology integrations, or expert support in training and education, Patterson has played a key role in helping us elevate our clinical capabilities while streamlining operations across our growing network. Their commitment to service and responsiveness ens...

Your first dental visit is an important step toward maintaining good oral health. Here’s what to expect and what you should be aware of: 🦷 What to Expect During Your First Visit Medical & Dental History Review You'll fill out a form or go over your health history, medications, and any dental concerns (like sensitivity, pain, or anxiety). Be honest about any conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart issues) that could affect treatment. X-rays (if needed) Most first visits include dental X-rays to check for decay, bone loss, or other hidden issues. Dental Exam The dentist will check your teeth, gums, jaw, bite, and look for signs of cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. They may also evaluate any existing dental work (like fillings or crowns). *Professional Cleaning (Depending on dental history and patient age) A dental hygienist may clean your teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. They might polish your teeth and apply fluoride. ...

 The debate between production per procedure vs. production per hour is a hot topic in dental practice management. Each model has its pros and cons depending on your clinical philosophy, practice goals, and how you want to motivate and compensate providers. Let’s break it down: 🦷 1. Production per Procedure Model ➕ Pros: Simple & Transactional : Easy to track, and bill. Need a higher fee schedule to make work. More predictable : Each procedure has a high set fee, making it easy to forecast daily/weekly revenue. ➖ Cons: May discourage comprehensive care : Incentivizes more procedures over smarter treatment planning. Doesn’t reward time-intensive cases : Long procedures (like full-mouth rehab or complex endo) may be disincentivized. Not ideal for multi-disciplinary care : Doesn’t reflect the value of time spent on diagnostics, planning, or patient education. ⏱ 2. Production per Hour Model ➕ Pros: Rewards efficiency and time management : Encourages ...

 Budgeting for Capital Expenditures (CapEx) in a dental office depends on the size, age, specialty, and growth trajectory of the practice. Here's a breakdown based on current benchmarks and how it's changed over the past decade: 🧮 Typical CapEx Budget for Dental Offices (2025) Practice Type Annual CapEx Budget (as % of Revenue) Notes General Practice 4–7% Includes chairs, imaging, computers, minor remodels Specialty (Ortho, Oral Surgery) 6–10% Higher tech needs (e.g., CBCT, scanners, sedation) New or Fast-Growth Practice 8–12%+ Heavier initial investment and scaling Per Operatory Average Annual CapEx: $5,000–$10,000 Larger Projects (every 7–10 years): $250,000–$600,000+ for remodel or expansion 📈 CapEx Trends Over the Past Decade Year CapEx Trend vs Revenue Drivers 2015 ~2–4%     Focus on digital radiography and EHR 2020 (COVID-era) Spike in PPE and HVAC CapEx     Infection control investments 2023–2025 6–10% average in modernizing offices ...

 At LADD Dental Group of Logansport , we are incredibly grateful to share some exciting news with our amazing patients and community — we’re officially welcoming Dr. Noah Barrett to our dental family! Dr. Barrett brings with him a strong commitment to compassionate, high-quality dental care and a passion for helping patients achieve their healthiest, happiest smiles. From the moment he walked through our doors, it was clear that his values aligned perfectly with our mission to provide personalized, patient-first dentistry in a warm, welcoming environment. We are honored to have him on board and know our patients are going to love his gentle approach and dedication to clinical excellence. But that’s not all — we’re also thrilled to announce the addition of two brand new state-of-the-art treatment rooms to our Logansport office! This expansion is a direct reflection of our commitment to meeting the growing needs of our community. With more space and enhanced resources, we’re b...