Modern Dentistry In Gibsonton

tooth brush with white toothpaste

Hi, my name is Dr. Richard Kernagis. My team and I at Your Time Dental Urgent Care have been providing excellent dental care for our patients in Florida since 2001.

One of the vital habits of good oral health is daily tooth brushing with an effective toothpaste. There is a wide variety of toothpastes available. I recommend you use one with fluoride and make sure it has the ADA seal. This ensures that the toothpaste has been tested, claims are being met, and the ingredients are correct.

Just because a toothpaste claims to have a ‘whitener’ doesn’t mean it has fluoride.

Toothpaste as we know it has only been in existence since the late 1800s. Fluoride was added in 1914. The earliest evidence of toothpaste or dental cream dates back to 3000-5000 BC. The Ancient Egyptians pulverized oxen hooves, egg shells, pumice, myrrh, and water creating one of the earliest forms of toothpaste.

The Greeks and Romans began adding crushed bones and bark to the mix. The taste most likely was hard to take. During this same time the people of China and India were using a similar paste, but adding flavorings, like Ginseng and herbal mints making it a bit more palatable.

Tampa toothpaste users have no excuse for not brushing their teeth daily with the toothpaste we have available today.

The experienced staff at Your Time Dental Urgent Care want to help all Florida smiles be whiter and brighter. Contact us today at 813-519-0128 so we can answer any questions you may have about tooth whitening, invisible braces, or cosmetic dentistry. Your Time Dental Urgent Care provides emergency same-day dental care, emergency dental care, weekend dental care, and sedation dentistry.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

Your Time Dental Urgent Care Is Here For You

three dental professionals staring down at a patientHello, I’m Dr. Richard Kernagis of Your Time Dental Urgent Care, a distinctive dental practice in Gibsonton, Florida.

The comfortable team at Your Time Dental Urgent Care would love to help you with any of your dental needs:

  • Immediate remedies for any pressing dental problems
  • A gentle, friendly dentist
  • Experienced care for patients with chronic health conditions such as cancer or diabetes
  • A cosmetic dentist who seeks ongoing training on the latest procedures and materials
  • An inviting dental office with amenities that make your visit comfortable and pleasant
  • A dental practice in Gibsonton that focuses on preventative care

My team of dental professionals at Your Time Dental Urgent Care has been serving the Tampa area since 2001. We provide preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry to patients of all ages.

We are located at 13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B, in Gibsonton, Florida. We offer comprehensive dental services including weekend dental care, sedation dentistry, and root canals. Our passion is providing exceptional care for our valued patients. To make an appointment, call us at 813-519-0128.

I look forward to being your Gibsonton dentist of choice.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

Gently Now (Protect Your Gums When You Brush)

young mother and daughter brushing their teeth and smiling

Everyone wants nice, pearly whites so, naturally, we should brush our teeth more, right? The only problem with that is many people brush their teeth too aggressively, leading to gum recession.  You don’t want that. Your Time Dental wants you to be aware of the health of your gums.

Gum recession is when your gum line exposes more of your teeth, or in severe cases, your tooth root. It creates a pocket of space between your teeth and gum line.  Decay-causing bacteria can grow and fester in that pocket. This leads to serious issues down the line. Even tooth loss.

Longer or Harder?

A common fallacy we hear occasionally at Your Time Dental Urgent Care is the idea that if you want to brighten your teeth, you should scrub them really hard.

The best way to get pearly whites (and prevent cavities) is to brush longer, not harder. Gently brush your teeth until they’re squeaky clean. Run your tongue over them. Doesn’t that feel great?

When you are finished brushing, it’s time to floss. Make sure you get the floss into the pocket between the teeth.

Why?

Brushing longer and not harder is the key. When you brush your teeth quickly, you may not be getting all the bits of food off. You don’t want the bits of food to turn into plaque.

If you truly desire whiter teeth, be sure you brush your teeth in a slow, circular motion for as close to five minutes as you can. Methodically go over each tooth on every surface. Plus your tongue. If five minutes is impossible, make sure you brush for at least two minutes. Set a timer on your phone. Play your favorite two-minute song.

Use a whitening toothpaste with fluoride. That way, you get all the recent gunk off and your teeth get a little bit whiter each time you brush. The fluoride helps your teeth re-harden after eating or drinking enamel-weakening acidic foods and beverages.

Let’s Review

If you’re not careful, the way you brush your teeth can lead to gum recession. Gum recession can (and most likely will) cause a space to form between your teeth and the gum line. This pocket collects bacteria. Bacteria cause cavities. Plus, if the gums continue to recede, the tooth can become loose.

Next, we discussed the proper motion and duration to brush your teeth. Finally, we went over the reasoning behind why all the aforementioned things are so important. Remember, you want a slow, circular motion for two to five minutes.

What If You Already Have Gum Recession?

Come talk to us at Your Time Dental Urgent Care. We can address your options for reversing it.

What If You Want Your Teeth Whiter Than Whitening Toothpaste Can Make Them?

Whitening toothpaste can make your teeth a shade or two lighter. Professional in-office teeth whitening can make your teeth several shades whiter. In just one visit, you can have a beautiful white smile.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

7 Steps For A Healthy Smile

dog with a toothbrush

 “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Benjamin Franklin coined this phrase as advice for fire safety. However, like all timeless quotes, it applies to many more features of modern Gibsonton life, particularly dental health.

Keeping your smile beautiful and healthy is done most effectively with preventative measures from Your Time Dental. Some critical guidelines are highlighted here.

1. Make a habit of brushing your teeth. Do it twice a day for 2 minutes. Be sure to use an ADA-approved toothpaste and toothbrush.

2. Don’t forget the floss! Flossing between your teeth daily will do wonders for your teeth and keep your gums healthy too.

3. Wear a protective mouthguard when joining in an activity where your mouth could possibly be damaged.

4. Don’t smoke. As if you needed yet another reason not to!

5. Avoid piercing your lips, tongue, cheek, or any other part of your mouth that someone decided you should shove a metal bar through. Piercings put you at greater risk for chipped teeth, infection, and nerve damage. It’s a perilous fashion that you’ll want to avoid.

6. Avoid snacks that have a lot of sugar or starch.

7. Schedule regular dental visits, of course!

My name is Dr. Richard Kernagis. Helping my dental patients establish good habits and achieve the smile they want with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as veneers, teeth whitening, and complete smile makeovers is important to me.

Your Time Dental Urgent Care has been serving the Gibsonton area since 2001. If you are in the market for an excellent dentist, we invite you to contact us so we can make an appointment for you.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit Your Local Friendly Dentist

modern dental office, closed blinds

In the hustle and bustle of life, amidst our myriad commitments and responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the importance of dental health. However, there’s no better time than now to prioritize your oral well-being by visiting Your Time Dental Urgent Care, your local friendly dentist.

Here’s why:

1. New Year, New Smile: As we usher in a new year, it’s an opportune moment to commit to better habits and self-care practices. What better way to start afresh than by scheduling a dental check-up at Your Time Dental Urgent Care? A visit here sets the tone for a year filled with healthy habits and a radiant smile.

2. Preventive Care Saves Money: Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral health issues early, preventing them from escalating into more costly and invasive procedures down the line. By investing in preventive care now at Your Time Dental Urgent Care, you’re not only safeguarding your oral health but also saving yourself from potential financial burdens in the future.

3. Advanced Technology for Enhanced Care: Dentistry has evolved significantly in recent years, with advancements in technology revolutionizing the patient experience. At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we offer a range of cutting-edge solutions to ensure your comfort and satisfaction during procedures, from digital X-rays to painless laser treatments.

4. Personalized Treatment Plans: Our team at Your Time Dental Urgent Care isn’t just a healthcare provider; we’re your partners in achieving optimal oral health. We’ll work with you to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals, whether you’re seeking routine cleanings, cosmetic enhancements, or restorative procedures.

5. Your Time Dental Urgent Care has implemented stringent safety protocols to protect patients and staff. From rigorous sanitization procedures to enhanced ventilation systems, rest assured that your visit to us is not only beneficial for your oral health but also conducted in a safe and hygienic environment.

6. Boost Your Confidence: A healthy, beautiful smile can do wonders for your confidence and self-esteem. By addressing any dental concerns or imperfections at Your Time Dental Urgent Care, you’ll not only enhance your oral health but also boost your overall sense of well-being and self-assurance.

7. Setting a Positive Example: Visiting Your Time Dental Urgent Care sets a positive example for your family and friends, encouraging them to prioritize their own dental health. By leading by example, you’re promoting a culture of proactive self-care within your community.

There’s no time like the present to prioritize your oral health by visiting Your Time Dental Urgent Care, your local friendly dentist.

Whether it’s for preventive care, addressing concerns, or simply maintaining a healthy smile, we’re here to support you on your journey to optimal oral health and overall well-being. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile with Your Time Dental Urgent Care!

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

Have You Thanked Your Dental Assistant Lately?

dental assistant in blue scrubs

Your dental practice would be a very different place if it weren’t for the experienced dental assistants who work there.

Today, Your Time Dental would like to discuss the importance of these experts who are typically overlooked.

Dental assistants not only make your dental appointment more comfortable, but they also make it effective, efficient, and safe.

You, the patient, are prepared for treatment by dental assistants and, during services (such as cavity filling, crown placements, root canals, or teeth whitening), the assistants speed things along by passing instruments, taking x-rays, holding devices, and recording important information.

Most dental patients would agree that anyone who helps to shorten their time in the dental chair is a person who deserves appreciation!

Keeping the dental office clean and sterilizing instruments are other critical responsibilities completed by dental assistants. What would we do without them?

My name is Dr. Richard Kernagis. I have been serving the Tampa area since 2001. The skilled dental assistants at my practice, Your Time Dental Urgent Care in Gibsonton, are world-class, along with the rest of our comfortable staff.

We can address your dental care needs as well as any cosmetic dentistry procedures you might be interested in, such as veneers, dental implants, gum contouring, or a smile makeover.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

Are You Smiling in Gibsonton?

cosmetic dentist Gibsonton

Hello Gibsonton! Welcome to Your Time Dental, where we have been here serving the Tampa area since 2001. We are constantly striving to cater to the oral health needs of our patients, and we hope that you might be one of these patients soon!

One innovative way that we keep our patients and others informed is by this blog, the Your Time Dental Urgent Care blog. We want to keep families informed about how they can have healthy, beautiful smiles.

A central objective of this blog is to encourage everyone to develop more effective oral health habits, such as proper brushing and flossing.

Cosmetic dentistry is another vital topic that we like to address. We offer a full menu of cosmetic dentistry services. Ask us about dental implants, teeth whitening, veneers, dental crowns, tooth-colored fillings, and gum contouring. We hope to educate Tampa residents on what these procedures are and how they can help you get the beautiful smile that you’ve always wanted.

If you have any questions, reach out to us and a member of our comfortable staff can schedule an appointment for you. Whether you want to know more about in-office teeth whitening, or problems such as dry mouth, dental implants, or invisible braces, we can help.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care from Your Time Dental Urgent Care

woman holding a piece of dental floss between her fingers

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise.

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care in the Gibsonton, Florida area, we believe in the power of proactive dental care to keep our patients smiling confidently for years to come.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental check-ups allow our skilled team to identify potential dental issues in their earliest stages. By detecting problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, we can intervene promptly and effectively, often preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Preservation of Natural Teeth: Preventative care focuses on preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments, we can help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth, reducing the risk of decay and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for keeping gums healthy and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Studies have shown associations between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing preventative dental care, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also promoting your overall health.

Components of Preventative Care

  • Regular Dental Examinations: Comprehensive dental exams allow us to assess your oral health, identify any concerns, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
  • Professional Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health at home. Our team provides personalized oral hygiene instructions and tips for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.

Your Time Dental Urgent Care is Your Partner in Oral Health

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we’re committed to providing comprehensive preventative care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. By partnering with us and prioritizing preventative dental visits, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and well-being.

Preventative care is the foundation of a healthy smile and a vital component of overall wellness.

By scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Your Time Dental Urgent Care in the Gibsonton, Florida area, you’re taking proactive steps to preserve your smile and protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and join us on the journey to lifelong oral health and happiness.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

5 Critical Oral Cancer Facts

young man checking his mouth for signs of oral cancer in Gibsonton, FL

Dental Checkups Are Not Just About Cavities

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we encourage people to come in twice a year for a dental examination and cleaning.  If you abstain from biannual dental checkups because you don’t believe you have any cavities, perhaps getting an oral cancer screening is a more compelling reason to see your dentist regularly. (While your dentist is checking for oral cancer, we urge you to have a thorough dental examination as well!)

Oral Cancers Don’t Get as Much Attention

In the last few decades, lung and breast cancer have attracted a lot of public attention. There is relatively less awareness of oral cancer even though it claims almost 10,000 lives every year in the United States. If you smoke or have contracted HPV, you have a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

Early Diagnosis is Critical

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we work to elevate awareness of oral cancer and the importance of early diagnosis. Courtesy of the CDC, Oral Cancer Foundation, and Johns Hopkins Medicine, here are 5 vital things to know about oral (mouth) and oropharyngeal (back of mouth and throat) cancers.

1. About 80% of individuals with oral cancer use some kind of tobacco (cigarettes, chewing tobacco, pipes).

2. 40% of people who receive a late-stage diagnosis of oral cancer pass away within five years. The survival rate for early-stage diagnosis is 90%.

3. In many cases, it is practically impossible for the individual to detect oral and oropharyngeal cancers because they can produce indistinct symptoms or no symptoms at all. Any abnormality in the mouth or throat, even if small and painless, should be checked out by a dentist or doctor.

4. HPV (the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in the U.S.) is the most common cause of oropharyngeal cancer. Of the copious strains of HPV, HPV16 is the one most regularly linked to oropharyngeal cancer.

5. Black males have a substantially higher risk of dying from oral cancer than whites.

An oral cancer check is easy!

A visual oral cancer exam is relatively quick and convenient, especially as compared to other cancer screening tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms. If an abnormality is discovered during an exam, the patient is referred to an appropriate specialist for further testing and diagnosis.

Sources:
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/oral_health/oral_cancer_and_tobacco_85,P00900/

HPV / Oral Cancer Facts


https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/index.html

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789

Your Gibsonton Dentist Does a Lot More Than Fill Cavities

Bad Breath Treatment Tampa

Most people know that they can go to their dentist for toothaches, cleanings, and bleeding gums (not to mention cosmetic dentistry procedures such as a smile makeover), but there are some lesser-known oral concerns that your Your Time Dental Urgent Care can help you with.

Dry mouth treatment

Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. It also predisposes dental patients to a host of problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. A lot of men and women experience dry mouth because of medications or medical conditions. Make sure you bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Bad breath treatment

Bad breath is usually a result of bacteria build-up in the mouth, and regular trips to your dentist can help you keep your mouth clean and the bacteria count within a sweet-smelling range. Do you have good oral hygiene and still have bad breath? Then your dentist can help you discover the source of your halitosis.

Jaw issues

Jaw clicking and jaw discomfort are symptoms you should have checked immediately. They can be signs of serious oral issues.

Treatment for snoring

Did you know that some dentists can help with chronic snoring? Some types of sleep apnea can be treated with a dental appliance.

Oral cancer checks

Dentists also perform oral cancer checks when they examine a patient. Oral cancer is much harder to treat if it is not detected early.

Teeth grinding treatment

Your dentist may also be able to help you with teeth grinding. Nighttime teeth grinding can damage enamel and cause severe headaches.. If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night—make an appointment for an examination.

Your dentist may also create custom sports mouthguards. If you or your child participates in a contact sport, you may need fast emergency dentistry at some point.

Your dentist does a whole lot more than fill cavities. Dental professionals are essential members of your healthcare team.

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-710-9789