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Shwetha Rodrigues DDS

Shwetha Rodrigues DDS

Airway-Centered Dentist | Comprehensive, Preventive, and Functional Care

Dentistry is a field I find incredibly rewarding. It allows me to be part of my patients’ lives in a meaningful way — not just by caring for their teeth, but by helping them breathe, sleep, and live better.

At our practice, we offer airway-centered general dentistry for children and adults, combining advanced technology with a deep understanding of how oral health connects to overall well-being. We often think about crowns, fillings, or braces as isolated procedures — but a better understanding of why we need them offers a far healthier outlook. Each of these treatments tells a story about balance and function. A tooth that fractures may reflect uneven bite forces from jaw tension. A filling might be needed because of dry mouth from mouth breathing or medication. Crowded teeth often signal poor breathing patterns and restricted jaw growth. Even grinding, something many dismiss as “stress,” can actually be the body’s way of performing its own CPR to maintain an open airway during sleep.

By recognizing these patterns, we can address the cause rather than the consequence, helping patients achieve long-term health instead of temporary fixes. Airway-centered dentistry looks beyond the teeth and gums to identify the deeper relationships between breathing, sleep, posture, and growth. When structure and function are in harmony, we see not only healthier smiles but also improvements in energy, focus, and vitality.

One of the most meaningful contributions I can make is guiding patients to understand and take control of their daily oral habits. The mouth is the gateway to the body — and its condition profoundly affects how we feel, function, and heal at every age.

Education and Professional Training

I completed my Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry in San Francisco (2003), following my Bachelor’s in Dental Surgery (BDS) in India. My education and ongoing commitment to learning have equipped me to provide a wide range of integrative, evidence-based treatments.

To stay at the forefront of this evolving field, I continuously train with leading educators in airway, sleep, and functional dentistry. I also mentor other dental professionals on how to incorporate airway-centered principles into their practices.

My professional training and certifications include:

  • Vivos Integrated Dentist – addressing craniofacial growth and sleep-disordered breathing

  • Laser Dentistry (LANAP® & NightLase®) – for non-invasive gum and snoring treatments

  • Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) – advanced cleaning method that gently removes the bacterial biofilm responsible for gum disease, decay, and oral-systemic inflammation.

  • CEREC Same-Day Crowns (CAD-CAM) – providing durable, aesthetic restorations in one visit

  • Gum Rejuvenation (Pinhole Surgical Technique) – scalpel-free, suture-free gum lift

  • Drill-Less Fillings – conservative cavity treatment and white spot management

  • Orthodontics for Adults and Teens – clear aligners and functional expansion

  • Interceptive Orthodontics for Children – guiding jaw development and early airway correction

  • Sleep Apnea and Snoring Devices – oral appliances for airway support during sleep

  • Therapeutic Botox & TMJ Therapy – addressing jaw tension, clenching, and facial pain

  • Headache and Bite Management – balancing occlusion using digital tools like T-Scan and DTR

A Team Built on Trust and Shared Care

Our office is built on the wonderful support of a dedicated team who truly believe in what we do. Each team member not only upholds the highest standards of care but also entrusts their own families’ dental health to us. This shared trust and personal connection create an atmosphere where patients feel genuinely cared for — like part of our extended family. Together, we strive to make every visit a positive experience rooted in compassion, excellence, and collaboration.

Collaboration, Education, and Mentorship

Airway care thrives through teamwork. I love collaborating with therapists, specialists, and medical doctors, as this type of care often requires an interdisciplinary approach to achieve lasting results. I also host webinars and educational sessions for parents to help them understand how breathing, growth, and oral habits shape their child’s long-term health.

Beyond clinical care, I find great joy in mentoring other dental professionals, helping them integrate airway-focused principles into their practices and discover the same fulfillment this approach has brought to mine.

Akashdeep Bhatthal DDS

Akashdeep Bhatthal DDS

DDS

Hi, I’m Dr. Akashdeep Bhatthal, and I’m proud to provide gentle, high-quality dental care to support your healthiest, most confident smile.

I began my educational journey at Virginia Tech, where I earned a bachelor's degree in Clinical Neuroscience — Go Hokies! During my time there, I developed a strong foundation in the basic sciences and gained valuable exposure to the dental field through shadowing experiences. After graduating, I pursued my Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD). While at UMSOD, I was honored to be selected for the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clerkship, where I refined my surgical skills and had the privilege of working with oncology patients.

After completing dental school, I moved to the Chicagoland area to further my training through a General Practice Residency at Evanston Hospital. Here, I had the opportunity to further my advanced training while working closely with patients with complex medical histories and collaborated with oral surgeons to manage both dental and medical emergencies.

Throughout my extensive education, I am committed to providing quality, comprehensive care, from routine checkups to advanced treatments. My approach is centered around understanding each patient's unique needs, which allows me to create tailored treatment plans that prioritize comfort and long-term oral health. I believe that excellent dentistry is not just about fixing teeth but building relationships and trust with my patients. Whether you’re visiting for a cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or restorative care, I take the time to listen to your concerns and guide you through the best options for your smile.

When I’m not in the office, there’s a good chance you’ll find me out and about enjoying everything Richmond has to offer. I’m usually cruising around on my bike, hitting the gym to balance out my love of carbs, or exploring different neighborhoods just to see what’s new. I try to spend as much time as possible outdoors—unless it’s summer in Virginia, in which case I’m hiding inside with iced coffee and air conditioning. On the weekends, my inner foodie comes out in full force. I absolutely love trying new restaurants around the RVA area—bonus points if they have good tacos. If you’ve got a favorite spot, I’m always taking suggestions (for “research purposes,” of course).

At work, my main focus is making sure every patient feels truly comfortable and cared for. I know the dentist’s office probably isn’t most people's favorite place (unless you really love flossing—which, if so, we should definitely talk), but I do everything I can to create a space that’s warm, friendly, and maybe even a little fun. Whether you’re here for a routine checkup or working toward a bigger smile goal, I’m excited to be part of your journey. I look forward to meeting you and helping you feel confident about your smile—dad jokes and all!

Breathe Right.
Sleep Tight.
Smile Bright.

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Find Out If Your Child Struggles With Sleep Disordered Breathing

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Find Out If Your Child Struggles With Sleep Disordered Breathing

Download our easy-to-use screening tool to find out if your child might be suffering from symptoms of mild to moderate sleep disordered breathing.