It is not often easy to be a woman in medicine. But Catherine Young, D.D.S. of Young Dental Aesthetics, has demonstrated determination and dedication in forging her own path, and she’s committed to bringing up other women with her.
Young began her journey to the east in Brenham, where its famous Blue Bell Ice Cream definitely didn’t hurt her grandfather’s dental practice. She worked in her grandfather’s office before finishing her undergraduate work at Texas State and dental school in San Antonio. During that season, Young got to know Jack Shirley, D.D.S., who offered to sell Young his practice in 2019.
Fresh out of school, Young found herself learning fast. “It was an adjustment; the trust [with patients] wasn’t there, so I had to take that and turn that,” Young recalls. Learning to nurture relationships with existing patients while growing the practice was a challenging but formative experience. “It’s not just about teeth and a smile,” she says. “You are treating a person.”
Many people fear interacting with medical professionals, and Young is sensitive to those feelings. Women especially can face challenges receiving medical care. Suppose a woman is apprehensive about treatment because she has battled cancer or is going through menopause. In that case, Young will address these challenges with her patient during the initial consultation. She says it’s vital that women communicate openly with their providers to feel as comfortable as possible.
The future is looking brighter to Young. She is encouraged by how many more women are entering the dental field. Young says that dentistry has been male-dominated, but she’s noticing more parity. “It shows that we as females are strong enough and have the willpower to juggle not only personal life but also a place of business and do what we love,” she says.
For all the young women considering a career in dentistry, Young’s advice is simple: “Go for it!” she says emphatically. Young notes that dental school has challenges but is extremely rewarding. She says women can absolutely find a balance between things they love, whether that includes relationships, family, or a career. She has the work, a supportive husband, and a three-year-old son to prove it. “Do not let anyone stop you. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot; you absolutely can!”
youngdentalaesthetics.com | (210) 615-8357 | 10103 Huebner Rd. Ste. 104, San Antonio
