By Libby Hopkins

Smiles are very important. When you smile, you relieve stress; boost your mood and immune system. You would be surprised how many people don’t go to the dentist because they suffer from dental phobia. Dr. Kera Young of Young Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Spa in Gibsonton has made it her goal to help educate her patients on dental health as she takes away any fears they may have of going to the dentist.

“It is our goal for parents to make informed decisions and completely understand their child’s dental needs,” Young said. “At our office we strive to make your child’s visit a pleasant and memorable experience.”

Young graduated cum laude from Talladega College in 1992 with a Bachelor’s in biology. She later attended Meharry Medical College, School of Dentistry where she graduated with honors with a Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1996. She served in the U.S. Navy from 1996-1999 where she received several awards including the Naval Accommodation Medal, AEGD Residency and Officer Leadership certificate.

“I became a dentist because I wanted to help children and also change the perception of dentistry,” Young said.

She is a member of the American Dental Association, West Coast Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry to name a few.

“My staff and I are dedicated to creating a healthy and happy smile for our patient’s children,” Young said. “We provide a relaxed and fun environment so they can enjoy their visit.”

Young promotes health awareness in the community by talking to local pre-school, elementary and college students about the importance of dental treatments. Her practice is expanding its orthodontic services by partnering with local vocational schools as a dental assistant externship location.

“We will be performing dental health presentations at local elementary schools, and we will be providing continued care to children and young adults with special needs in 2015,” Young said. “Also, February is Children’s Dental Health Month, so the office will be highlighting the importance of cavity prevention and dental health.”

Visit www.youngsmilesdental.net or call 829-9075. The office is located at 13131 Kings Lake Dr., Ste. 104 in Gibsonton.

Previous articleOn The Water With Captain Ric
Next articleO’Reilly Auto Parts Opening Riverview Location In January
Libby Hopkins
Libby Hopkins has been a part of the Brandon community for more than 30 years. She is a graduate of USF with a degree in journalism. She has been a freelance writer for The Osprey Observer Newspaper since 2008. She also the Executive Director of Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association. She is a dog mom to her rescue dog, Marshall. She loves being a part of the Brandon Community and she loves sharing positive news about our community.