Cosmetic Dentistry

Jan9

New Year, New Smile: The Power of Veneers

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Veneers

January often feels like a reset button. We make lists, set goals, and envision better versions of ourselves. While gym memberships and diet plans are common resolutions, many people overlook one of the most impactful changes they can make: their smile. If you’ve spent another year hiding your teeth in photos or feeling self-conscious during social gatherings, 2026 could be the year that changes.

At Your Time Dental, serving Gibsonton, Bradenton, and Lithia, FL, we believe confidence starts with a smile you love. Dental veneers offer a transformative solution that can turn “maybe next year” into “this is my year.”

Why Consider Dental Veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are more than just a cosmetic upgrade; they are an investment in your self-esteem. Unlike some dental procedures that require months or even years to show results, veneers provide a dramatic transformation relatively quickly.

Choosing veneers means choosing a long-term solution. They are durable, resistant to stains, and designed to function just like your natural teeth. Whether you want to fix a single troublesome tooth or completely redesign your smile, veneers offer versatility that few other treatments can match.

Fixing Flaws with Precision

We see many patients who feel their dental issues are too complex or varied to fix without extensive surgery. Veneers are often the perfect middle ground, effectively masking a wide variety of imperfections.

Here are the common issues veneers can remedy:

  • Discoloration: Some stains, particularly those from medication or root canal treatments, don’t respond well to traditional whitening. Veneers cover these deep stains completely.
  • Chips and Cracks: Daily wear and tear can leave teeth looking ragged. Veneers restore the smooth, intact appearance of a healthy tooth.
  • Gaps: Uneven spacing or small gaps between teeth can be closed instantly without the need for braces.
  • Misalignment: For teeth that are slightly crooked, veneers can provide a straighter look without orthodontics.
  • Worn Down Teeth: If you grind your teeth, they may look shorter over time. Veneers can restore their original length and shape.

Natural Looks Through Modern Technology

A common fear among patients is that cosmetic dentistry will look fake or “too perfect.” In the past, dental work could sometimes appear bulky or opaque. However, modern dentistry has evolved significantly.

Today’s veneers are crafted from advanced porcelain materials that mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel. They are incredibly thin, meaning less of your natural tooth structure needs to be removed compared to older methods. The result is a smile that looks authentic, bright, and distinctly yours.

Expert Care in Tampa Bay

The success of your veneers depends heavily on the skill of your dentist. At Your Time Dental, you are in expert hands. Dr. Rick Kernagis is a leading dentist in the Tampa, FL area with extensive experience in cosmetic procedures.

Dr. Kernagis is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Psi Omega Dental Fraternity. His commitment to staying at the forefront of dental technology ensures that patients in Gibsonton, Bradenton, and Lithia receive top-tier care.

Make This Your Year

Don’t let another year pass wishing for a different smile. With the expertise of Dr. Kernagis and the team at Your Time Dental, achieving the look you’ve always wanted is closer than you think. Schedule a consultation today to see if veneers are the right choice for your new year transformation.

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: 813-519-0128

Mar21

Veneers vs. Other Cosmetic Dental Options: Which One Is Best for You in Gibsonton, FL?

Categories: Bonding, Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers

middle aged couple with their arms around each other, smiling and showing off their cosmetic treatmentsFor many residents of Gibsonton, FL, enhancing their smile is a priority. Whether it’s to boost self-confidence, address cosmetic imperfections, or feel better about your overall appearance, there are several cosmetic dental options available to help you achieve your dream smile. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, Dr. Rick Kernagis offers state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers. But how do you choose the best solution? Understanding the differences between these treatments can help you make an informed decision.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are ultra-thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin that are carefully crafted and bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They are typically used to correct issues such as:

  • Discolored or stained teeth
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Slightly misaligned or uneven teeth

Veneers are durable, natural-looking, and designed to transform your smile while maintaining a healthy, natural aesthetic.

Why Veneers Might Be Right for You

Choosing veneers at Your Time Dental means more than just a cosmetic improvement—they offer a long-lasting and minimally invasive solution for a perfect smile. Veneers provide a variety of benefits, including:

  • Customizable Results: Crafted to match the color, size, and shape of your teeth.
  • Durability: Porcelain veneers, in particular, are resistant to stains and built to last for many years with proper care.
  • Natural Appearance: Veneers blend seamlessly with your smile, offering a polished, natural look.

Whether you’re attending an event in the nearby South Tampa area or just strolling through Gibsonton neighborhoods, veneers can help you smile with confidence.

Veneers vs. Bonding

While both veneers and bonding can address cosmetic issues like chips, cracks, and discoloration, they differ in materials and durability.

  • Bonding: This involves using a tooth-colored resin applied directly to your tooth. It’s a quicker, more cost-effective option but is less durable and can stain over time.
  • Veneers: A more polished and stain-resistant solution, veneers are ideal for those looking for a longer-lasting and more natural-looking finish.

If you’re young or want a quick fix to a minor imperfection, bonding could be a reasonable choice. However, for a more transformational change, veneers are worth investing in.

Veneers vs. Crowns

Both veneers and crowns can enhance the appearance of your teeth, but they serve different purposes.

  • Crowns: Typically used for teeth that are severely damaged or weakened, crowns cover the entire tooth to add strength and functionality.
  • Veneers: Designed for cosmetic improvements, veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth.

If your primary goal is to restore a heavily decayed or damaged tooth, crowns may be the better option. On the other hand, if your concern is purely aesthetic, veneers are ideal.

Why Choose Dr. Rick Kernagis at Your Time Dental?

At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, Dr. Rick Kernagis understands that each patient’s smile is unique. He specializes in providing affordable and personalized cosmetic dental treatments, ensuring exceptional results. Whether you’re exploring veneers, bonding, crowns, or other options, Dr. Kernagis will guide you through the decision-making process with care and expertise.

Don’t wait to enhance your smile! Call Your Time Dental to schedule a consultation today and discover the best cosmetic dental option for you. Whether you’re from Gibsonton or the South Tampa area, your dream smile is closer than you think!

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: 813-519-0128

Dec27

Suspect a Bite Problem?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

x-ray of a bite issue

Hello! I’m Dr. Richard Kernagis, DMD, of Your Time Dental Urgent Care in Gibsonton. Thanks for visiting my dental blog. The topic of today’s post is malocclusion–literally–”bad bite.”

Malocclusion Affects Many People

Edward Angle, a pioneer in modern orthodontics invented the term malocclusion. Malocclusion is fairly common in the population as a whole but, fortunately, in most cases, the misalignment is so slight that it causes no issues.

When you combine multiple teeth on two arches and a jaw joint with a considerable range of motion, it is easy to see how these elements can fail to align properly. In fact, it is a wonder that they work correctly for most people–allowing them to talk, eat, and breathe without giving it a second thought.

Malocclusion Has Multiple Causes

There are many causes of malocclusion–some originating with the teeth and some originating with the jaw. Misshapen teeth, extracted teeth, impacted teeth, crowded teeth, and widely spaced teeth can affect the bite. Injury to the jaw can also cause malocclusion as well as improperly fitting restorations and other dental appliances.

Childhood Behaviors Can Cause Bite Problems

Children with a normal bite can develop bite dilemmas with prolonged pacifier use, thumb sucking, or bottle drinking. In rarer cases, oral tumors can move a bite out of alignment.

Dentists Can Treat Malocclusion

The treatment for malocclusion depends on the cause. Orthodontics can move teeth into alignment to correct bite dilemmas. Overcrowding often requires the extraction of one or more teeth. Misshapen teeth that affect the bite can often be fixed with crowns or dental bonding.

If the jawbone is significantly misshapen or misaligned, maxillofacial surgery may be required. Jaw surgery is a serious undertaking with significant risks and a long, painful recovery. While the jaw heals, it is secured with wires and screws. Ouch!

Don’t Ignore Bite Problems

If your jaw hurts or you observe unusual wear to your teeth, you must be examined by a professional.

Our comfortable dental team has been serving patients at our comfortable Gibsonton office since 2001. We can give you more specifics about malocclusion, root canals weekend dental care, or dental implants.

We also advise Gibsonton parents about important issues such as tooth development, thumb-sucking, water fluoridation, dental sealants, oral sports protection, and orthodontia. If you suspect that you or your child has any degree of malocclusion, schedule an exam ASAP. Untreated bite issues can inhibit proper nutrition, breathing, tooth development, and speech development.

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: 813-519-0128

Oct18

Have You Thanked Your Dental Assistant Lately?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, General Dentistry

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: 813-519-0128

Oct11

Are You Smiling in Gibsonton?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

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: 813-519-0128

Sep6

When Something’s Gotta Give in Gibsonton, Don’t Let It Be Your Smile

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

general and cosmetic dentistry Tampa

Life is hectic for many Gibsonton residents. At times, it’s impossible to get all the “gotta do’s” done, and many are postponed or dropped altogether.

Sometimes your car has to wait another 500 miles for an oil change. Or you are a month late replacing your furnace filter. Or you realize that you’ve had a leaky faucet for as long as you can remember.

Many important things get put on the back burner, but Your Time Dental urges you not to disregard essential dental care.

Here are some typical dental care shortcuts. Are you guilty of any of them?

Rushing Through Brushing

Your teeth deserve a conscientious two minutes or more. Slow and methodical beats quick and dirty. Use a system to make sure you get every tooth. Playing one of your favorite two- or three-minute songs may help you go the distance.

Only Seeing Your Dentist When You Have a Toothache

We hope none of our patients put off examinations and cleanings. When you feel tooth pain, it may be way too late to prevent a filling or even a root canal.

Neglecting Professional Cleanings

When softer plaque turns to calculus, you can’t clean it away with a toothbrush. Six-month cleanings help get rid of the calculus or tartar before it can hurt your enamel or irritate your gums.

Using Floss Picks Instead of Dental Floss

While it’s better to floss with a floss pick than to not floss at all, it’s important to understand that floss picks can only clean a part of the tooth’s surface. A floss pick holds just a small length of floss stretched in a straight line. Looking down, a tooth is shaped somewhat round or oval.

A straight piece of floss just doesn’t make sense geometrically because it doesn’t conform to the contours of the tooth as well as traditional floss. When you wrap a string of floss completely around the circumference of a tooth, you can more thoroughly clean that vital area around and just below the gumline. We have seen patients who are observant floss pick users who developed decay in a very small crack the floss pick missed day after day.

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we urge our patients to practice preventative dentistry to safeguard their smiles for life.

 

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: 813-519-0128

Aug30

Want A Reason To Smile All The Time in Florida?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

Apollo Beach cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Don’t like your teeth? We invite you to consider a smile makeover from Your Time Dental.

1. Look and feel younger.
2. Improve your oral health.
3. Increase your confidence.
4. Smile all the time!

Hello, I am Dr. Kernagis. Welcome to my dental blog. I serve my patients at Your Time Dental Urgent Care, which is located at 13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B in Gibsonton, Florida. I have been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry since 2001.

There are exciting developments in the field of cosmetic dentistry. During my career, I have become proficient in a wide variety of advanced dental treatments aided by breakthroughs in techniques and tooth restoration materials. My passion is providing the highest standard of dental care for my Gibsonton area patients and creating the healthiest and most beautiful smiles possible.

If you are not familiar with the latest innovative dental procedures, you might not realize what cosmetic and restorative dentistry can achieve. A total smile transformation involves a combination of cosmetic dental procedures which may include dental crowns, porcelain veneers, dental bonding, tooth implants, inlays and onlays, gum contouring, teeth whitening and, in some cases, orthodontia.

If you have dental anxiety, we can help. Sleep dentistry, sometimes called conscious sedation, will calm your nerves and help you relax while you undergo your smile transformation.

If you are in the Gibsonton Apollo Beach, Fish Hawk, or Lithia area and have cosmetic dentistry questions, schedule a consultation by calling us at 813-519-0128.

 

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: 813-519-0128

Aug23

Preventative Maintenance For Your Irreplaceable Smile

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

Preventative Maintenance For Your Irreplaceable Smile In Gibsonton

Hi, I’m Dr. Richard Kernagis of Your Time Dental. If you are one of my patients, welcome back. If this is your first visit, I appreciate you stopping by.

My comfortable team and I love taking care of our valued patients in the Gibsonton area.

Today’s article is for smiles that are overdue for a cleaning and exam.

What is a Deep Dental Cleaning?

During dental deep cleanings, our hygienists thoroughly remove the plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. By scaling and planing, they remove areas where bacteria can easily multiply.

Schedule a Professional Cleaning Today

We are enthusiastic about preventative dentistry to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. If you are due for a cleaning, schedule today.

An Exam is Not Just to Check for Cavities

After one of our skilled hygienists cleans your teeth, I perform a thorough examination. I check for overall tooth and gum health, the presence of decay, gum pocket depth, bite issues, and signs of oral cancer.

You Could Have a Dental Problem Without Knowing It

Some men and women mistakenly believe that they can skip dental visits if they don’t notice anything out of the ordinary. This attitude is risky. Many dental problems advance silently. When the patient experiences pain, much damage has been done. Gum disease, especially, often progresses unnoticed.

No Dental Insurance? No Problem!

If you don’t have dental insurance, ask us about dental financing options. It is far less pricey to prevent dental problems than to treat them after they have become severe.

If you perform regular auto maintenance, you understand the wisdom of prevention. Don’t you value your smile far more than your auto? Call Your Time Dental Urgent Care today to schedule preventative maintenance for your irreplaceable 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: 813-519-0128

Aug16

Want Whiter Teeth?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

Whiter Teeth for Gibsonton Teeth whitening has become very popular as an affordable, manageable way to enhance your smile with little effort and no pain.

Your Time Dental Urgent Care can help you understand your options for teeth whitening and the results you may expect from various teeth whitening options.

Over-the-counter whitening systems can give varied effects, with many users not satisfied with over-the-counter teeth whitening products.

Your cosmetic dentist can help you whiten your teeth effectively and attain professional results. If you are ready to try a teeth whitening product, please schedule a teeth whitening consultation.

Our comfortable staff would love to answer any questions you have about general, cosmetic, restorative, or pediatric dental treatment. Here are some of our services:

weekend dental care
sedation dentistry
root canals
dental implants
tooth extractions

If you are searching for quality, friendly dental care in the Tampa area, call us here at Your Time Dental Urgent Care. We are currently accepting new patients at our comfortable, state-of-the-art dental office. At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we are committed to providing superior dental care to our valued patients.

 

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: 813-519-0128

May17

Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening at Your Time Dental Urgent Care

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening at Your Time Dental Urgent Care

A radiant, white smile is an essential part of our appearance, exuding confidence and leaving a lasting impression on others. Over time, our teeth can become stained or discolored due to various factors, such as age, lifestyle habits, and certain foods and beverages.

Luckily, modern dentistry offers a solution to restore the brilliance of your smile: professional teeth whitening. Your Time Dental Urgent Care can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Why Choose Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic dental procedure designed to lighten the shade of your teeth, removing stubborn stains and discolorations. Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, professional teeth whitening at Your Time Dental Urgent Care ensures customized treatments and expert supervision for optimal results.

The Your Time Dental Urgent Care Difference

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we understand the significance of a bright smile and how it can enhance your self-esteem and overall well-being. Our team of experienced dental professionals is committed to providing top-notch dental care, including teeth whitening services. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: No two smiles are the same, and neither should be the teeth whitening approach. Our skilled dentists will assess your unique dental needs and recommend a customized treatment plan tailored to achieve the best results for you.
  • Safe and Gentle Procedures: Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Your Time Dental Urgent Care employs advanced teeth whitening techniques that are gentle on your teeth and gums, minimizing sensitivity while maximizing results.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: We stay at the forefront of dental technology to offer you the latest advancements in teeth whitening. Our cutting-edge equipment ensures efficient and precise treatments.
  • Long-Lasting Effects: Unlike many over-the-counter products that provide temporary results, our professional teeth whitening treatments yield long-lasting effects, allowing you to enjoy your bright smile for months.

The Teeth Whitening Process

During your visit to Your Time Dental Urgent Care, our dental experts will guide you through the teeth whitening process step-by-step:

Initial Consultation: Our dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to ensure you are a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. We will also discuss your expectations and answer any questions you may have.

Preparation: Before beginning the whitening procedure, we will clean your teeth to remove any surface debris and plaque.

Customized Whitening Treatment: Your Time Dental Urgent Care offers both in-office and at-home teeth whitening options. In-office treatments deliver immediate results in a single session, while at-home kits provide the convenience of whitening your teeth in the comfort of your home.

Post-Treatment Care: After your teeth whitening procedure, our dental team will provide you with post-treatment care instructions to ensure the longevity of your newfound brilliance.

Maintaining Your Sparkling Smile

To maintain the results of your teeth whitening treatment, it is essential to adopt good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Additionally, avoiding excessive consumption of stain-inducing foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can help prolong the effects of teeth whitening.

A dazzling smile can be a game-changer, boosting your self-confidence and leaving a memorable impression on others. With professional teeth whitening at Your Time Dental Urgent Care, you can achieve the bright smile you’ve always wanted, with the guidance of our expert dental team.

Book a consultation today and let Your Time Dental Urgent Care help you take the first step towards a brighter, more confident you.

Remember, your smile is your best asset – let it shine!

 

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: 813-519-0128