Your Third Molars

In ancient times humans were bestowed with three sets of molars to accommodate their diet which included roots, bark, seeds, raw vegetables, and large pieces of raw meat. Over the years, the human jaw has become smaller due to a softer diet of cooked foods. As a result many people don’t always have room for…

What Is Dry Socket?

Are you scheduled for a tooth extraction? Most tooth extractions are performed easily, quickly, and without any problems. Once in a great while, however, there may be a minor complication. The most common problem after having a tooth extracted is dry socket. Only about two to three percent of people ever develop dry socket and…

Downtown Art Walk in Lafayette

On the second Saturday of the month, the next time being July 12, 2014, the Art Walk will take place in the Downtown Lafayette Cultural District. It is a fun and enjoyable evening filled with local color, great art, and live music. The Downtown Cultural Arts District continues to evolve and to grow into a…

Symmetry in Smiling

You probably don’t need a professional opinion to tell you that straightening crooked teeth can significantly improve your smile’s appearance. Still, as an adult, you might be hesitant about wearing metal braces, especially if your image and confidence are an important part of your professional life. Unfortunately, vanity doesn’t change the fact that, without proper…

Smiling Can Make You Happy

Did you know people who frown during medical procedures experience more pain? Studies show that frowning appears to bring on feelings of negativity, while smiling induces positive emotions and feelings of well-being. Maybe that’s because when you’re under stress your body releases the hormone cortisol, which has been associated with depression, mental illness, and a…

Is Gum Disease Something You Should Worry About?

It’s more than an issue with your gums; periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States. The rampant inflammation associated with the condition is also a recognized risk factor for other chronic inflammatory conditions.  The good news is that gum disease is highly preventable, and equally as controllable if…

Defining Crooked Teeth

Of all the issues that can affect your smile’s function and appearance, crooked teeth are often among the most complex to treat. Besides the asymmetrical look it lends to your smile, malocclusion can make it difficult for your mouth to operate properly by throwing your bite pressure off balance. Your jaw’s joints and muscles can…

Relax! Your Smile Will Thank You For It

Most people would admit that relaxation is plenty of reason to smile. However, not as many people realize that taking a load off from time to time can actually improve the health of your smile by allowing you to decompress from compounding stress. Your Lafayette dentist, Dr. Michael J. Young, knows well that excessive stress…