Ladd Dental Group

 ​ The U.S. economy contracted by 0.3% in the first quarter of 2025—the first decline since early 2022—while core inflation accelerated, raising concerns about stagflation. ​ 📉 Q1 2025 GDP Contraction: What Happened? GDP fell 0.3% on an annualized basis, reversing the 2.4% growth in Q4 2024. The primary driver was a 41.3% surge in imports as businesses rushed to stockpile goods ahead of President Trump's new tariffs, which subtracted over 5 percentage points from GDP. Consumer spending slowed to a 1.8% growth rate, down from 4% in Q4 2024, with durable goods spending declining by 3.4%. Federal government spending decreased by 5.1%, partly due to budget cuts implemented by the Department of Government Efficiency. Business investment rose by 21.9%, likely driven by preemptive purchases ahead of the tariffs. 📈 Inflation: Core PCE Re-Acceleration The core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index —the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation me...

 The relationship between stress and teeth grinding (bruxism) is well-established. Here's how they connect and the potential health consequences: 🧠 Relationship Between Stress and Teeth Grinding Emotional stress, anxiety, and tension are among the most common triggers for teeth grinding , especially nocturnal bruxism (grinding during sleep). Stress activates the body’s fight-or-flight response , which can increase muscle activity, including in the jaw. People often unconsciously clench their teeth when under pressure, particularly at night or during intense concentration. ⚠️ Health Risks of Chronic Teeth Grinding If left unmanaged, bruxism can cause significant issues: 1. Dental Damage Worn enamel and flattened teeth over time Increased risk of tooth fractures , loosening , or loss Tooth sensitivity from enamel erosion 2. Jaw Disorders Development or worsening of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders Jaw pain , clicking , or locking ...

  At Ladd Dental Group, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality, affordable dental care —regardless of insurance status. That’s why we’re proud to offer our Dental One Discount Plan , a straightforward, budget-friendly solution for patients who want to prioritize their oral health without breaking the bank. What Is the Dental One Discount Plan? The Dental One Discount Plan is not insurance . It’s a dental  discount program that provides reduced rates on a wide range of dental services for a low annual fee. It’s designed specifically for individuals and families without traditional dental insurance, or those seeking an easier, more predictable way to manage their dental costs . Why Patients Love It ✅ No Deductibles, Waiting Periods, or Annual Maximums Unlike traditional insurance plans, Dental One has no red tape . There are no waiting periods for treatment, no confusing claim forms, and no annual caps on what you can save. You start saving immediately...

 At LADD Dental Group , we believe that strong communities are built on relationships, trust, and shared goals. That’s why we are deeply honored and humbled to have been selected to give the Keynote Address at Ross Medical Education Center’s 2025 graduation ceremony in Kokomo . This opportunity is incredibly meaningful to our team. Ross Medical Education Center has long been a vital partner in shaping the future of dental care , and we are proud to support and celebrate their graduating class — a group of individuals who are about to embark on careers that will make a real difference in people’s lives. Community partnerships are at the heart of everything we do at LADD Dental Group . From supporting educational institutions to investing in local events and organizations, we believe that giving back and staying connected helps all of us thrive. Being asked to share a message with the graduating class is a true testament to the power of these relationships, and we are so grateful t...

 We are beyond thrilled and incredibly proud to celebrate a major milestone for one of our own! Our talented and hardworking HR Director, Kelli, has been invited to be the Keynote Speaker at the 2025 Ross Medical Education Center Graduation Ceremony! This honor is a true reflection of Kelli’s dedication, leadership, and passion for people. She has been an integral part of our team, helping to shape and support the heart of our organization through her unwavering commitment to our employees, patients, and future healthcare professionals. Kelli’s ability to inspire, mentor, and empower those around her makes her the perfect choice to address this year's graduates as they step into the next exciting chapter of their careers. At LADD Dental Group , we’ve seen firsthand the impact Kelli has on those lucky enough to work with her. Her compassion, integrity, and drive lift everyone she encounters. We know that the graduates at Ross Medical will leave their ceremony feeling motivated, c...

 ​ Championship Park has significantly impacted Kokomo's economy since its opening in 2021. ​ 🏟️ Economic Impact of Championship Park According to a 2024 economic impact study by the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau, visitors to Kokomo and Howard County contributed $252 million to the local economy in 2023, with direct expenditures accounting for $181 million. This represents a 17.3% increase from 2019. The opening of Championship Park in 2021 played a pivotal role in this surge, attracting numerous youth sports tournaments and boosting tourism-related spending on lodging, dining, and retail.   🏢 Ownership and Development Championship Park is a collaborative project between the City of Kokomo and Henke Development Group, the developer behind Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield . The city invested approximately $11.4 million to construct eight multi-purpose fields, while Henke Development is overseeing an estimated $86 million mixed-use development adjacent to the ...

  The latest economic impact study reveals that Kokomo’s tourism industry is thriving, driving significant growth and benefiting the entire Howard County community. Visitor travel and spending have risen substantially, positioning the tourism sector as a key contributor to local economic prosperity. Commissioned by the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau and completed in August 2024, Certec Inc. conducted a study on the Economic Impact of the Kokomo/Howard County Tourism and Travel Industry, examining data from 2023 and comparing to the last study period of 2019. The study found that visitors to Kokomo and Howard County contributed $252 million to Howard County’s economy in 2023. Of that, direct expenditures by visitors accounted for $181 million. That’s a 17.3% percent increase from the 2019 study period, when direct visitor spending totaled $107 million. The spending came from over 1.7 million destination and pass-through travelers in Howard County in 2023, the study reports. In 2019...

 Mark C. Honeywell is famous as an inventor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist , with deep ties to Wabash, Indiana . He’s best known for his pioneering work in hot water heating systems and for being the founder of what eventually became Honeywell International Inc. , a global tech company. But beyond his industrial legacy, his lifelong commitment to his hometown left an incredible impact.  🔧 Mark C. Honeywell & Local History: Mark C. Honeywell was born in Wabash in 1874. He founded the Honeywell Heating Specialty Company in 1906 in Wabash, which originally manufactured hot water home heating systems. His innovations eventually led to a merger with the Minneapolis Heat Regulator Company in 1927, forming what is now known as Honeywell International Inc. So while the corporate Honeywell became a global company headquartered elsewhere, its roots are in Wabash .  🎭 The Honeywell Foundation & Legacy in Wabash: Mark Honeywell used his wealth to gi...

 Dr. James Ford is renowned in Wabash, Indiana , for his multifaceted contributions as a 19th-century physician, Civil War surgeon, inventor, pharmacist, writer, and community leader. In 1841, he and his wife, America, constructed a modest one-room brick home at 177 West Hill Street, which expanded over the decades into a 4,000-square-foot residence by the 1870s. This home now serves as the Dr. James Ford Historic Home museum, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century family life, medical practices, and period architecture. Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Ford was a charter trustee of North Western Christian University (later Butler University) in Indianapolis, reflecting his commitment to education and civic engagement. Wabash, Indiana, boasts a rich historical tapestry. Originally platted in 1834 on land ceded by the Potawatomi and Miami tribes in the 1826 Treaty of Paradise Spring, the city gained prominence with the arrival of the Wabash and Erie Canal in the 1830s, spur...

  As of April 2025, the dental industry is navigating a complex landscape marked by both challenges and areas of resilience. Here's an overview of the current state: 📉 Key Challenges Facing Dental Practices 1. Staffing Shortages A significant concern is the ongoing difficulty in recruiting and retaining dental professionals. Approximately 62% of dentists identify staffing shortages, particularly among dental hygienists and assistants, as a primary challenge. While there has been a slight improvement in recruitment efforts since 2022, hiring remains a pressing issue for many practices. 2. Insurance and Reimbursement Issues Over half of dental practitioners report challenges related to low insurance reimbursements, claim denials, and delays in payments. These financial hurdles are compounded by frustrations with Medicaid and Medicare processes.   3. Rising Operational Costs Nearly 46% of dentists are grappling with increasing overhead expenses, including staff w...

 When it comes to combating the signs of aging, Botox and dental implants both play very different roles—but each can have a significant impact depending on your goals. Botox : Purpose : Targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement—like crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. Effectiveness : Quick results (within days) and great for smoothing skin and giving a refreshed appearance. Longevity : Temporary—effects last around 3–4 months, so maintenance is needed. Dental Implants : Purpose : Replace missing teeth and restore facial structure, especially around the jaw and lower face. Effectiveness : Very effective for preventing that "sunken" look that can come with tooth loss and bone resorption, which can age the face significantly. Longevity : Permanent solution when cared for properly—can last decades. So if you're looking to soften wrinkles and freshen up the upper face, Botox is your go-to. But if you're seeing aging effects ...

 Botox and dental implants are both powerful tools, but they serve very different purposes when it comes to facial aesthetics and aging. Here’s a breakdown: 🧪 Botox: The Wrinkle Fighter What it does: Temporarily relaxes muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles (think frown lines, crow's feet, forehead creases). Smoother skin, lifted brows, and a more youthful upper face appearance. Best for: Fine lines and wrinkles. A quick refresh with minimal downtime. Preventative aging (younger patients often use it to delay wrinkle formation). Longevity: 3–4 months per treatment. 🦷 Dental Implants : The Structural Rejuvenator What they do: Replace missing teeth, which helps restore facial structure . Prevent bone loss in the jaw (which leads to facial collapse and that “sunken” look). Improve chewing, speech, and confidence. Best for: Rebuilding lost facial volume from tooth and bone loss. Improving the lower third of the face (jawline, mouth are...

 “Best” can mean different things depending on what you're looking for—clinical quality, patient experience, growth and innovation, dentist support, and affordability plus convenience . Based on a mix of those factors, here are some of the top dental groups in Indiana , each known for different strengths: ⭐ 1. LADD Dental Group HQ : Kokomo, IN Offices : 7+ (including Kokomo , Peru , Wabash , Bunker Hill , Greentown , McCordsville , Westfield , Logansport , and Huntington ) Strengths : Family-owned and operated since 1978 Strong focus on community engagement and new dental technology (e.g., Overjet AI, SureSmile) Entrepreneurial and growth-oriented (6,000+ new patients/year) EOS implementation and leadership development culture ⭐ 2. Mortenson Dental Partners / Gentle Dentist HQ : Louisville, KY Indiana Offices : 25+ Strengths : One of the largest employee-owned DSOs in the country Strong clinical mentorship model Operates many pract...

 At LADD Dental Group , we are proud to share that our general dentists earn significantly more than the national average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for general dentists in 2024 was $191,750 . In Indiana, the average was $200,000. Our commitment to offering competitive compensation reflects our dedication to attracting and retaining top dental talent. We understand that our success is intrinsically linked to the expertise and satisfaction of our dental professionals. By investing in our dentists , we ensure that our patients receive the highest quality dental care . We are grateful for the exceptional team at LADD Dental Group . Their hard work and dedication are the foundation of our continued success. We remain committed to fostering an environment where our dentists can thrive professionally and personally. If you're a dental professional seeking a supportive and rewarding workplace, consider joining our team. Together, ...

 If you’ve ever woken up with a sore jaw, frequent headaches, or worn-down teeth, you might be dealing with a common yet often overlooked dental condition called bruxism —better known as teeth grinding . While stress is a big contributor, bruxism can also result from misaligned teeth or an improper bite. Fortunately, clear aligner treatment , such as SureSmile®, can offer more than just a straighter smile—they can also help alleviate the symptoms and damage caused by teeth grinding . What is Bruxism? Bruxism is a condition in which you unconsciously grind, gnash, or clench your teeth, often during sleep. It can lead to a host of dental and health issues, including: Tooth wear and fractures Gum recession Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort Frequent headaches or earaches Poor sleep quality How Clear Aligners Can Help Most people associate clear aligners with cosmetic straightening, but they also serve therapeutic purposes for conditions like b...

 In our fast-paced, high-pressure world, stress has become a nearly unavoidable part of daily life. While most of us are familiar with the emotional and physical toll that stress can take—fatigue, headaches, trouble sleeping—many are surprised to learn that stress can significantly impact oral health, too. One of the most common (and most dangerous) stress-related dental issues is teeth grinding , also known as bruxism . What is Bruxism? Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth , often during sleep but sometimes during the day as well. It’s a condition that many people don’t even realize they have until symptoms appear—or worse, until damage has already been done. How Stress Fuels the Grind Stress and anxiety are major triggers of bruxism. When your body is in a constant state of “fight or flight,” it can manifest physically—through clenched jaws, tight facial muscles, and grinding teeth . Over time, these repetitive movements can cause serious damage to y...

 ​ As of April 2025, there is growing concern among economists and financial institutions about the possibility of the U.S. economy entering a recession. Goldman Sachs recently increased the probability of a U.S. recession occurring by the end of 2025 to 45%, citing escalating trade tensions and newly imposed tariffs as significant factors contributing to economic uncertainty. ​ Similarly, J.P. Morgan has adjusted its recession forecasts, raising the likelihood of a U.S. recession starting before the end of 2024 to 35%, with a 45% chance by the end of 2025. These adjustments reflect concerns over weakening labor demand and a loss of momentum in global manufacturing. The implementation of new tariffs by the Trump administration has intensified these concerns. President Trump's recent imposition of a 10% baseline tariff on most imports has led to significant market volatility. While the administration temporarily postponed some tariffs following market turmoil, the overall unc...

 The recent wave of U.S. tariffs on imported medical and dental supplies is making headlines—and the dental industry is bracing for impact. While policymakers aim to bolster domestic manufacturing, these tariffs could have unintended consequences for dental professionals , patients, and the overall cost of care. Let’s break down what these new tariffs could mean for dentistry . 💸 Rising Costs for Dental Practices Dental offices rely heavily on a wide range of imported products—from dental chairs and sterilization equipment to handpieces, implants, and even basic disposables. With tariffs adding new costs to many of these goods, practices may see a spike in their overhead. For smaller or rural dental clinics , even a modest increase in supply costs can eat into already-tight margins. What this means: Higher costs could lead some practices to delay equipment upgrades, tighten budgets, or in some cases, pass those expenses on to patients. 🛠️ Supply Chain Disruptions Tari...

 At LADD Dental Group , we’re constantly embracing innovations that elevate the standard of care we provide. One of the most game-changing advancements in modern dentistry is dental implants —and we’re proud to offer this life-changing treatment to our patients. So, Why Are Dental Implants Such a Big Deal? For decades, missing teeth meant dentures or bridges—solutions that came with compromises in comfort, function, and aesthetics. But then came dental implants , and they truly revolutionized how we approach tooth replacement. Here’s how: 1. They Mimic Natural Teeth—Perfectly Dental implants are designed to replace the entire structure of a missing tooth —from the root to the crown. This gives them unmatched stability and functionality. You can chew, speak, and smile with total confidence—just like you would with your natural teeth. 2. They Preserve Jawbone Health Unlike traditional bridges or dentures that sit on the surface, implants are surgically placed into the jawbo...