Education, Experience, and Professional Affiliations
Dr. Blake Young of Drs. Leal, Spangler & Johnson in Winston-Salem, NC, brings a strong scientific foundation and modern dental training to the practice. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2022. His academic background also includes a Master of Science in Physiology from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Pennsylvania State University. Dr. Young is committed to professional growth and collaboration and is an active member of several educational organizations, including the North Carolina Dental Society, the Forsyth County Dental Society, the North Carolina Academy of General Dentistry, and the Academy of Osseointegration.
Comprehensive and Patient-Focused Care
Dr. Young's approach to patient care is centered on the principle that the patient’s needs and goals always come first. Recognizing that every individual has unique desires for their oral health, he emphasizes the importance of the patient being an active partner in their own dental care team. Dr. Young fosters this collaboration through open communication and building trust. He utilizes tools like photography, taking plenty of photos so patients can clearly see what he sees, facilitating shared understanding and decision-making about treatment plans. By thoroughly discussing diagnoses and exploring all appropriate options together, Dr. Young empowers patients to choose the best path for their oral health in a supportive environment.
Commitment to Excellence Through Continuing Education
Enthusiastic about the dynamic nature of dentistry, Dr. Young embraces the incorporation of technology and evolving techniques to provide a higher quality of service. He believes staying up-to-date makes dentistry exciting and allows for better patient outcomes. Dr. Young stays current through active participation in his professional organizations and a commitment to ongoing learning. He particularly enjoys the challenge and reward of complex cases, valuing a collaborative team approach—including the patient—from diagnosis to the final result. This dedication is evident in his interest in a variety of procedures, with a special focus on dental implants and dentures, noting how implants can significantly improve denture predictability and comfort. He considers it an honor and joy to be part of a patient's journey to a new, potentially life-changing smile, meticulously restoring oral health, function, and aesthetics.
Practice Philosophy and Community Engagement
Dr. Young aligns perfectly with Drs. Leal, Spangler & Johnson's commitment to patient well-being and a welcoming atmosphere. His personal practice philosophy is clear: "I treat every patient as if they were my family and I treat every tooth as if it were in my mouth." Placing the patient's best interest at the forefront is paramount in every decision. This dedication to service extends beyond the office; giving back to the community is deeply important to Dr. Young. He volunteers regularly at the Community Care Clinic in Winston-Salem, providing need-based dental care at no cost. He has also contributed his skills at several other volunteer clinics including the North Carolina Missions of Mercy dental clinics and he actively participates in other community initiatives like Habitat for Humanity.