Hi, I'm Dr. Kristen Young, DDS, MS, and I'm delighted you've taken the time to learn more about me and the dedicated team at Perio Specialist

My Journey

I was born in Taiwan and had the opportunity to grow up in several different parts of the world. I spent my early childhood in South Africa before returning to Taiwan, and later moved to California, where I lived in both Los Angeles and the Bay Area.

Growing up in different countries taught me the importance of connecting with people, adapting to new environments, and appreciating different cultures. Those experiences shaped the way I build relationships and communicate with others, and they continue to influence how I care for my patients today.

From a young age, I was drawn to science, enjoyed working with my hands, and loved solving problems, making dentistry a natural career choice. Throughout my undergraduate years, I was grateful for opportunities to volunteer in my community, and during dental school at UCSF, I had the privilege of caring for patients at the UCSF Community Dental Clinic. Those experiences reinforced my passion for helping others and providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

Why I Chose Periodontics

My appreciation for periodontics began even before dental school while working as an assistant in a periodontal practice in Seattle. Seeing firsthand how periodontal therapy and dental implants could restore both oral health and confidence was incredibly inspiring. Although my interest in dentistry started much earlier, that experience helped me realize that periodontics was the path I wanted to pursue.

Throughout dental school and my residency at UCSF, that passion only continued to grow. I discovered that periodontics uniquely combines science, surgical precision, artistry, and problem-solving while offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives. Whether it's saving a natural tooth, rebuilding lost bone and tissue, or restoring the foundation for a healthy smile, I find it incredibly rewarding to help patients regain both their oral health and their confidence.

My Philosophy of Care

One of my mentors shared a simple piece of advice that has stayed with me throughout my career:

"Treat every patient like family."

That philosophy continues to guide the way I practice today.

I strive to create a welcoming environment where every patient feels heard, respected, and comfortable asking questions. I believe that understanding your diagnosis and treatment options is essential to making confident decisions about your care. My goal is for every patient to leave our office feeling informed, supported, and cared for.

For me, exceptional patient care is built on trust, honest communication, and always putting my patients' best interests first. I look forward to helping you achieve a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.