Ladd Dental Group

 There is something incredibly special about welcoming a new dentist into the LADD Dental Group family—and even more special when that dentist brings such a talented, positive, and compassionate team along with him. This month, we are thrilled to celebrate the one-month anniversary of Dr. Bala Sankuratri, DDS, MPH, BDS, and his remarkable dental team becoming part of LADD Dental Group! 🦷❤️ Dr. Bala has already made a tremendous impression on our organization, our patients, and the communities we are privileged to serve. He is currently caring for patients at our Kokomo and Peru locations , bringing an impressive combination of clinical knowledge, research experience, continuing education, and genuine compassion to every patient interaction. More Than a Dentist What has stood out most during this first month isn't simply Dr. Bala's impressive educational background—it's the way he approaches dentistry and the people around him. Dr. Bala earned his Doctor of Dental Surge...

At LADD Dental Group , we believe every patient deserves a smile they feel confident sharing. Clear aligner therapy has made achieving that smile more convenient, comfortable, and discreet than ever—and our partnership with Dandy gives our patients access to a modern digital approach to orthodontic treatment. A More Discreet Way to Straighten Your Smile One of the biggest advantages of clear aligners is that they are designed to be virtually invisible. Unlike traditional metal braces, Dandy Clear Aligners allow patients to straighten their teeth without brackets and wires being the center of attention. That can be especially appealing for adults and teens who want to improve their smile while maintaining a natural appearance throughout treatment. Comfort and Convenience Clear aligners are removable, which can make everyday life much easier. Patients can take their aligners out to eat and drink, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without many of the restrictions associated wi...

Federal prosecutors and the SEC are investigating whether Mark Walter-controlled insurers properly disclosed billions of dollars of investments connected to other Walter-controlled businesses. One insurer reportedly reclassified roughly $16 billion of investments as affiliated , representing about 37% of its invested assets. Why this matters to DSOs 1. The cost of capital for dental acquisitions could rise A huge amount of DSO growth has ultimately been fueled by institutional capital—private equity, private credit, banks, family offices and other alternative lenders. If regulators become more skeptical of private-credit structures, affiliated transactions and leverage , lenders may become more conservative. That could mean: Higher interest rates on DSO acquisition debt Lower leverage multiples More equity required from DSO sponsors More scrutiny of EBITDA adjustments Tougher underwriting of individual dental practices Longer acquisition processes This could be par...

 At LADD Dental Group , we believe that great dentistry never stops evolving. One of the things we value most is creating opportunities for our doctors and teams to continue learning, growing, and bringing the very best care to our patients. That is why we are incredibly grateful to the Dandy Clear Aligner team for coming on-site and providing our providers with such stellar, comprehensive clear aligner training! Having the Dandy team here in person made the experience especially valuable. Their hands-on approach, clinical expertise, and willingness to work through real-world cases gave our providers the opportunity to strengthen their understanding of clear aligner treatment and become even more confident in utilizing digital dentistry to serve our patients. Clear aligner therapy has become an exciting part of modern dentistry , but successful treatment is about much more than simply offering aligners. It requires thoughtful diagnosis, careful treatment planning, predictable...

 We are incredibly excited to officially welcome Dr. Sai Malpeddi to LADD Dental Group of Bunker Hill as he begins seeing patients and caring for families in our community! Dr. Malpeddi brings a strong educational background, a passion for dentistry, and a genuine commitment to providing patients with thoughtful, comprehensive care. We are thrilled to have him become part of the LADD Dental Group family and look forward to seeing the relationships he builds with our patients and team. At LADD Dental Group , we believe that great dentistry is about much more than treating teeth. It is about building trust, listening to our patients, and creating relationships that last for generations. Dr. Malpeddi shares that philosophy, making him a wonderful addition to our Bunker Hill team. As we continue to grow and serve more families throughout North Central Indiana, adding talented and compassionate providers like Dr. Malpeddi allows us to expand access to high-quality family dental care...

At LADD Dental Group , we believe dentistry has always been about more than teeth. It is about people. Every day, our dentists have the opportunity to build relationships with patients and families that can last for years—even generations. We believe those relationships are one of the most important parts of providing exceptional dental care . Dentistry Is Personal Going to the dentist can feel intimidating for many people. Patients are trusting us with their health, their smiles, their concerns, and often their fears. That trust cannot be built with technology or procedures alone. It is built through genuine relationships. Our dentists take the time to listen. They get to know their patients, understand their goals, answer questions, and help them feel comfortable. Over time, those conversations create something incredibly valuable: trust. And when patients trust their dentist , they are more likely to take an active role in their oral health and feel confident about the care the...

At LADD Dental Group , we believe that great dentistry is built on a commitment to lifelong learning. Our providers are constantly looking for ways to expand their skills, embrace new technology, and ultimately provide better treatment options for the families we serve across North Central Indiana. That is why we were especially grateful to have the Dandy Clear Aligner team join us for our most recent provider meeting and provide our doctors with comprehensive clear aligner training. The training was an incredible opportunity for our providers to go beyond simply understanding clear aligner technology. The Dandy team walked our doctors through treatment planning, case selection, digital workflows, clinical considerations, and strategies for creating predictable outcomes for our patients. Clear aligner therapy has become an important part of modern dentistry . When used appropriately, it can provide patients with a comfortable, convenient, and discreet way to improve both the appearan...

 Dr. Sai Malpeddi is excited to join the LADD Dental Group family and serve patients at our LADD Dental Group of Bunker Hill location. Dr. Malpeddi brings a strong academic and research background to his dental career. He began his academic journey at Indiana University Bloomington , where he served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant in Molecular Biology and Biological Mechanisms. Through this experience, he developed a passion for education, communication, and helping others better understand the science behind healthcare. His interest in research continued through his work as a Research Assistant with the Lapish Lab Group at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis , where he gained valuable experience working in a collaborative scientific environment. He also participated in the Clinical and Translational Science Institute Research Associates Program (CTSI RAP) , gaining exposure to clinical and translational research. These experiences have helped shape Dr. Malpe...

At LADD Dental Group , we are incredibly grateful for the relationship we have with Indiana University School of Dentistry and the impact this remarkable institution has had on dentistry throughout our state and beyond. For our organization, that relationship is deeply personal. Dr. John Ladd, the founder of LADD Dental Group, graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry in 1977. He has always been incredibly proud to call IU School of Dentistry his alma mater and has remained a passionate supporter of the program throughout his career. The education, mentorship, clinical training, and professional foundation Dr. Ladd received at IU helped shape the dentist and leader he would become. That foundation ultimately helped establish the values that have guided LADD Dental Group for decades: excellence in patient care, service to our communities, lifelong learning, and a commitment to developing the next generation of dental professionals. Today, we are especially grateful that ...

 Recently, our LADD Dental Group team had the privilege of touring the Indiana University School of Dentistry , and the experience reminded us just how grateful we are for the relationship we have built with this incredible institution. For decades, IU School of Dentistry has played an important role in educating and developing the dental professionals who serve communities across Indiana. As a group that is proud to have many IU-trained dentists on our team, we have a firsthand appreciation for the quality of education, clinical training, and mentorship that the school provides. Our recent tour gave us another opportunity to see the innovation and dedication that go into preparing the next generation of dentists . From the clinical facilities and technology to the faculty and students, it was exciting to see an environment so focused on excellence in patient care and education. A Relationship That Benefits Our Communities Our relationship with IU School of Dentistry is about m...

 We were truly honored and grateful to celebrate the remarkable Dr. Harold Smith and reflect on his incredible military and dental career. For more than 30 years, Dr. Smith has been an important part of the LADD Dental Group family and the Kokomo community. His dedication to serving others—both through his military service and his lifelong commitment to dentistry —is something we deeply admire. Dr. Smith has left an incredible legacy of leadership, compassion, professionalism, and service. We are so thankful for the countless patients, colleagues, and families whose lives he has touched throughout his remarkable career. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for your service, your friendship, and your many years of making a difference. We are incredibly grateful to call you part of the LADD Dental Group family. 

 At LADD Dental Group of Huntington , we believe great dentistry is about more than just taking care of teeth—it’s about building lasting relationships with patients and families in our community. Dr. Amandeep Kaur and Dr. Kevin Deakyne are excited to welcome new patients to our growing Huntington dental office. Whether you’re looking for a new family dentist , it’s been a while since your last dental visit, or you’re interested in improving your smile, our team is here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile at every stage of life. Comprehensive Care for the Whole Family One of the things we pride ourselves on at LADD Dental Group is providing comprehensive family dental care under one roof . From young children experiencing their first dental visits to adults looking for restorative, cosmetic, or preventive care, our team is committed to meeting the unique needs of every member of your family. Our goal is to make dental care convenient, comfortable, and personalized. W...

Some people come into your life and make an impact. Others become part of your story in a way that you know you will carry with you forever. For me, Dr. Harold Smith is one of those people. Dr. Smith has meant so much more to me than simply being a colleague or a dentist I have had the privilege of working alongside. He has been a mentor, a friend, a trusted voice, and someone who has helped shape me both personally and professionally. One of the experiences I will never forget is working through COVID together. Those were incredibly uncertain and challenging times. As a dental organization, we were navigating circumstances none of us had ever experienced before. There were difficult decisions, uncertainty about what the future would look like, and plenty of moments when we simply had to figure things out as we went. Having Dr. Smith beside me during that time meant more than I probably expressed at the time. His experience, perspective, calmness, and willingness to work through diff...

 At LADD Dental Group of Kokomo , we believe great dental care should feel personal, welcoming, and accessible for the entire family. Whether your child is coming in for their first dental visit , you’re overdue for a cleaning, or you’re looking to restore and improve your smile, our team is proud to provide comprehensive family dental care for patients of all ages . As a family-owned dental group serving North Central Indiana, our philosophy has always been simple: family serving families. We want our Kokomo patients to feel like they have a dental home where they are known, cared for, and treated with the same compassion we would want for our own families. ✅ Now accepting new patients ✅ Family dental care for all ages ✅ Preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry ✅ A caring, welcoming dental team ✅ Proud to serve Kokomo and surrounding communities If you or your family are looking for a new dental home, we would be honored to welcome you to the LADD Dental Group family! ?...

We were truly honored and grateful to celebrate the remarkable Dr. Harold Smith and reflect on his incredible military and dental career. Dr. Smith has been a vital part of the LADD Dental Group family and the Kokomo community. His dedication to serving others—both through his military service and his lifelong commitment to dentistry —is something we deeply admire. Dr. Smith has left an incredible legacy of leadership, mentorship, professionalism, and service. We are so thankful for the countless patients, colleagues, and families whose lives he has touched throughout his remarkable career. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for your service, your friendship, and your many years of making a difference. We are incredibly grateful to call you part of the LADD Dental Group family.

 There are milestones in every journey that deserve to be celebrated, and today we are incredibly grateful to celebrate our first month of caring for patients at LADD Dental Group of Rushville . When we opened our doors just one month ago, our goal was simple: to provide Rush County families with exceptional, compassionate dental care in a welcoming environment where every patient feels like family. Looking back on this first month, we couldn't be more thankful for the warm welcome we have received from this incredible community. Dr. Olsen Cottle and our entire Rushville team have been humbled by the trust that so many individuals and families have placed in us. Every new patient, every familiar smile, and every opportunity to help someone improve their oral health reminds us why we chose this profession.At LADD Dental Group , we believe dentistry is about much more than teeth. It's about building lifelong relationships, helping patients feel confident in their smiles, easing...

We proudly opened the doors to LADD Dental Group of Rushville with a simple mission: to provide exceptional, compassionate dental care to the families of Rush County and the surrounding communities. Today, we are incredibly grateful to celebrate our first successful month of serving patients, and we couldn't be more excited about what the future holds. From day one, the Rushville community has welcomed us with open arms. Every smile we've restored, every child we've helped feel comfortable in the dental chair, and every new relationship we've built has reinforced why we love what we do. Thank You, Rushville! Opening a new dental practice is about much more than renovating a building or installing new equipment. It's about becoming part of a community and earning the trust of the families who choose us for their dental care . We want to sincerely thank every patient who has visited our office during this first month. Whether you came in for a routine cleaning, em...

Dentistry is often considered the most impactful facial cosmetic treatment. The reason is a combination of visual prominence, human psychology, and facial anatomy . Teeth occupy a uniquely important position in how we perceive someone's face. 1. Your smile is the focal point of your face When people look at someone, their eyes naturally move between three areas: Eyes Nose Mouth When you smile or speak, your teeth become the brightest, highest-contrast feature on your face. Unlike a hairstyle or makeup, your teeth are constantly visible during conversation, laughter, and photos. 2. Teeth affect your entire facial appearance Dental treatment doesn't just change your teeth—it changes the framework that supports your face. Examples include: Restoring worn teeth can increase facial height and reduce an aged appearance. Replacing missing teeth helps support the lips and cheeks. Straightening teeth with clear aligners improves smile symmetry and facial balance. ...

  Dentistry is a profession built on lifelong learning. While dental school provides an outstanding clinical foundation, every dentist quickly discovers that graduation is only the beginning. New technologies emerge, treatment philosophies evolve, and every patient presents a unique opportunity to learn something new. At LADD Dental Group , we believe that one of the greatest advantages of practicing in a group dental environment is the ability to learn from one another. Our commitment to mentorship allows our doctors to continue growing throughout their careers while providing the highest level of care for the families we proudly serve throughout North Central Indiana. No Dentist Should Have to Practice Alone Private practice ownership can sometimes be isolating. Many solo practitioners are responsible for making every clinical decision, managing staff, overseeing operations, and navigating challenging cases without another doctor readily available for consultation. In a collab...

 We believe dentistry is about much more than teeth—it's about people. For nearly five decades, our mission has been simple: provide exceptional dental care for Indiana families in a welcoming environment where every patient feels respected, valued, and cared for. As a family-owned and operated dental group , we understand the importance of building lasting relationships. We are proud to care for multiple generations of families throughout North Central Indiana, from toddlers visiting for their very first dental appointment to grandparents maintaining healthy smiles for years to come. Comprehensive Care for Every Stage of Life Life changes, and so do your dental needs . That's why we offer comprehensive dental services designed to care for patients of every age. Whether your child needs preventive care, you're considering clear aligner treatment, or a loved one requires restorative dentistry or oral surgery , our experienced team is here to help. Our goal is to make rece...

 Many patients spend years thinking about straightening their teeth but never take the next step. They often tell themselves they'll "do it next year" or "wait until life slows down." The reality is that your teeth continue to change throughout your life, and delaying treatment can make future problems more difficult—and sometimes more expensive—to correct. Here are some of the biggest reasons patients should consider moving forward with clear aligner treatment today: 1. Your Teeth Will Continue to Shift Even if you had braces as a child, teeth naturally drift over time. Small spaces can become larger, and minor crowding can become more noticeable. Beginning treatment sooner often means a simpler treatment plan than waiting several more years. 2. Better Oral Health Straight teeth aren't just about appearance—they're easier to keep clean. When teeth are properly aligned: Brushing becomes more effective. Flossing is easier. Plaque has fewer p...