Dental Emergency

Feb20

The Cost of Ignoring a Dental Emergency: Why Acting Fast Matters

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, Urgent Dental Care

A sudden, throbbing toothache or a chipped tooth from an unexpected accident can be alarming. It’s tempting to hope the pain subsides or to put off a visit to the dentist until your schedule clears up. However, delaying treatment for a dental emergency can lead to more serious complications, turning a manageable issue into a costly and complex problem. Acting fast is not just about relieving pain—it’s about protecting your long-term oral health.

At Your Time Dental, we understand that dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Under the leadership of Dr. Rick Kernagis, a leading dentist in the area, we are dedicated to helping patients in Gibsonton, Lithia, and the greater South Tampa area understand why immediate, professional care is so crucial.

The Risks of Waiting

Acting quickly during a dental emergency prevents further damage, reduces pain, increases treatment success, and ensures your oral health stays intact for long-term well-being

Ignoring a dental emergency can have significant consequences that extend beyond initial discomfort. What starts as a minor problem can quickly escalate, leading to more invasive treatments and higher costs down the road.

A small cavity, for example, might only need a simple filling. If left untreated, the decay can spread to the tooth’s pulp, leading to a severe infection. This often requires a root canal, a much more complex and expensive procedure. In the worst-case scenario, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.

Similarly, a cracked tooth might seem like a cosmetic issue at first. But even a small fracture can allow bacteria to enter the inner layers of the tooth, causing infection and intense pain. Prompt treatment can often save the tooth with a crown, but waiting can result in the need for extraction. Postponing care transforms a straightforward fix into a major dental intervention.

Don’t Let Pain Be Your Only Guide

One of the most dangerous things about dental problems is that pain is not always a reliable indicator of severity. A tooth that was previously in severe pain might suddenly go numb. This doesn’t mean the problem has resolved itself; it often signifies that the nerve inside the tooth has died, while the underlying infection continues to spread silently to your jawbone and surrounding tissues. This can lead to a serious abscess, facial swelling, and even systemic health issues.

Urgent Dental Care When You Need It Most

We believe that access to urgent dental care is essential for every community. That’s why Your Time Dental is structured to be there for you when emergencies strike. We proudly serve South Tampa with availability that fits your life, not the other way around.

Because we are open on weekends and have extended hours on Fridays, we’re available for emergency dental care when many other offices are closed. We also welcome walk-in appointments for urgent situations and are always here to answer any questions you might have. Don’t let a dental emergency compromise your health and budget. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or have suffered a dental injury, contact Your Time Dental immediately. Acting fast matters.

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

Dec19

The Critical Difference Urgent Dental Care Makes

Categories: Dental Emergency, Urgent Dental Care

A sudden, throbbing toothache or a knocked-out tooth can be a frightening and painful experience. These situations rarely happen at a convenient time. When a dental emergency strikes, every moment counts. The speed and quality of care you receive can make a significant difference in your long-term dental health, potentially saving a tooth and preventing more complex issues. Understanding the importance of urgent dental care is the first step toward protecting your smile. At Your Time Dental, we understand that emergencies don’t keep business hours. Led by Dr. Rick Kernagis, our teams in Gibsonton, Bradenton, and Lithia, FL, are dedicated to providing reliable and immediate care when you need it most.

Why Waiting Is Not an Option

Many people are tempted to wait for their regular dentist’s office to open when faced with a dental problem. However, this delay can have serious consequences. A cracked tooth, for example, can become infected if not treated promptly. A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if it is reimplanted within an hour. Postponing treatment not only prolongs your pain but also increases the risk of permanent damage, more invasive procedures, and higher costs down the line.

Urgent dental care is specifically designed to address these time-sensitive issues. Unlike a standard appointment, it focuses on immediate diagnosis and pain relief. Getting professional help right away can prevent infection from spreading, stabilize an injury, and set the stage for a successful recovery.

Your Partner in a Dental Emergency: Your Time Dental

We stress the importance of having a trusted team ready to act, which is why our office is the place to be when you are experiencing a dental emergency.

We are equipped to handle a wide range of urgent situations, including:

  • Severe toothaches
  • Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
  • Knocked-out or dislodged teeth
  • Lost fillings or crowns
  • Abscesses and infections
  • Injury to the gums, cheeks, or tongue

Our primary goal is to get you out of pain quickly. We can diagnose the problem, provide effective treatment to stabilize the situation, and relieve your discomfort without making you wait. We ensure you receive the compassionate and expert care necessary to protect your oral health.

Get Emergency Dental Care in South Tampa

Don’t let a dental emergency compromise your well-being. The choices you make in the moments after an injury or the onset of severe pain are crucial to your dental outcome. Waiting can turn a manageable problem into a major one. Instead of suffering through the pain, reach out for professional help immediately.

If you are in South Tampa and experiencing a dental crisis, contact Your Time Dental. We are here to provide the urgent care you need to find relief and preserve your 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

Nov7

Sedation Dentistry From Your Time Dental Eases Emergency Care Stress

Categories: Dental Emergency, Urgent Dental Care

A sudden, throbbing toothache or a cracked tooth can happen without warning. In these moments, the last thing you need is dental anxiety getting in the way of urgent care. When you’re facing a dental emergency, every second counts. The pain and stress can be overwhelming, but fear shouldn’t prevent you from getting the immediate help you need. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, we understand this challenge and offer a solution to make your emergency visit as calm and comfortable as possible: sedation dentistry.

Dental emergencies are stressful enough on their own. You don’t have time to worry about the sights, sounds, or sensations of a dental office. Dr. Rick Kernagis and our compassionate team prioritize your comfort, especially when you’re in pain. Sedation allows us to work efficiently to resolve your issue while you remain completely relaxed. This means you can receive the critical care you need without the added burden of fear, allowing for a faster and more positive experience.

TRY SEDATION DENTISTRY IN GIBSONTON: ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION, LAUGHING GAS, AND IV SEDATION

Your Time Dental, proudly serving the South Tampa area, provides several safe and effective sedation options to meet your individual needs during an emergency. We’ll help you choose the right one for your situation.

  • Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide): This is a mild sedative you inhale through a small mask over your nose. It helps you relax quickly and its effects wear off just as fast once the mask is removed. It’s an excellent option for taking the edge off mild to moderate anxiety.
  • Oral Conscious Sedation: For this method, you take a prescribed pill shortly before your appointment. You will remain awake and able to communicate but will be in a state of deep relaxation. Many patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.
  • IV Sedation: This is a deeper form of sedation administered directly into the bloodstream. It provides a powerful anti-anxiety effect, making it ideal for patients with significant dental fear or those undergoing more complex emergency procedures. Our team carefully monitors you throughout the entire process.

Facing a dental emergency is never easy, but with the support of Dr. Rick Kernagis and the comfort of sedation dentistry, it doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. We are here to provide fast, effective, and anxiety-free care when you need it most.

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait. Contact Your Time Dental in Gibsonton immediately. Let us know you’re in pain, and be sure to ask about which sedation option can make your visit comfortable and stress-free.

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

Oct24

Debunking 5 Common Myths About Dental Emergencies

Categories: Dental Emergency, Emergency Dentist

A sudden, sharp pain in your tooth or an accidental knock to the jaw can be frightening. In these moments, it’s easy to second-guess whether you truly need immediate care. At Your Time Dental, Dr. Rick Kernagis and our team want to ensure our Gibsonton and South Tampa communities know how to react when faced with a dental emergency. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications, including infection, tooth loss, and more expensive procedures.

Let’s clear up some common myths that prevent people from seeking the urgent care they need.

Myth 1: “The pain will go away on its own.”

Fact: Significant dental pain is your body’s alarm system. It’s signaling a problem that won’t resolve itself, such as a deep cavity, an abscess (infection), or a cracked tooth. While pain might temporarily fade, the underlying issue will only worsen without professional treatment. Ignoring it allows decay or infection to spread, potentially causing more damage.

Myth 2: “A little blood from my gums is normal.”

Fact: While minor bleeding can happen from vigorous brushing, persistent or unexplained bleeding is never normal. It often points to gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) or a soft-tissue injury. Uncontrolled bleeding after an injury is a clear sign you need to see a dentist right away.

Myth 3: “If I can’t see damage, it’s fine.”

Fact: Many serious dental injuries aren’t visible. A hard impact can damage the tooth’s root, nerve, or the supporting bone without any obvious chip or crack on the surface. If you experience trauma to your mouth, it’s crucial to get it checked by a dentist to rule out hidden damage that could lead to tooth loss later.

Myth 4: “A cracked tooth isn’t an emergency.”

Fact: A cracked tooth is a serious issue. The crack creates an entry point for bacteria to infect the inner pulp of the tooth, leading to severe pain and an abscess. Even a minor crack can quickly worsen, potentially splitting the tooth to a point where it cannot be saved. Prompt treatment can often preserve the tooth with a filling, crown, or root canal.

Myth 5: “I can just wait until Monday to call.”

Fact: Dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Waiting over the weekend can turn a manageable problem into a complex one. An infection can spread, a broken tooth can become unsalvageable, and pain can become unbearable. Many emergency dentists, including Your Time Dental, offer after-hours instructions and aim to provide same-day care precisely for this reason.

Signs You Should Never Ignore

If you experience any of the following, seek dental care immediately:

  • Severe, persistent toothache or pressure
  • Swelling in your face, jaw, or gums
  • Fever accompanied by tooth pain or swelling
  • Trauma to the mouth, face, or jaw
  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • A pimple-like bump on your gums (a sign of an abscess)
  • A persistent bad taste or smell in your mouth

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

  • Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle it by the crown (top), not the root. Gently rinse it with water, and try to place it back in the socket. If you can’t, keep it moist in a small container of milk and call us immediately.
  • Severe Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and gently floss to remove any trapped food. Do not apply aspirin to the tooth or gums.
  • Broken Tooth or Filling: Rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
  • ER vs. Dentist: Go to the ER for life-threatening issues like a broken jaw, severe facial lacerations, or swelling that obstructs your airway. For all other tooth-related emergencies, call your dentist first.

We’re Here for You in Gibsonton and South Tampa

Don’t let a myth risk your oral health. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, call Your Time Dental right away. We offer same-day appointments and after-hours guidance to ensure you get the prompt, expert care you deserve.

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

Oct10

How to Know if Your Dental Problem is an Emergency in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Emergency, Urgent Dental Care

Waking up to sudden, severe tooth pain or experiencing a dental injury can be frightening. It’s hard to know what can wait and what needs immediate attention. At Your Time Dental, serving Gibsonton and the greater South Tampa area, Dr. Rick Kernagis and our team want you to feel confident in knowing when to seek emergency care. This guide will help you identify the signs of a true dental emergency and understand why quick action is so important.

Is Your Dental Problem an Emergency?

Not every dental issue requires an immediate visit, but certain symptoms should never be ignored. If you are experiencing any of the following, your situation is likely an emergency:

  • Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent, throbbing pain that keeps you from sleeping or concentrating.
  • Knocked-Out Tooth: Trauma that has completely dislodged a tooth from its socket.
  • Cracked or Broken Tooth with Pain: A significant fracture, especially if it causes sharp pain or sensitivity.
  • Uncontrolled Bleeding: Bleeding from the mouth that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure.
  • Facial Swelling or Abscess: Swelling in your cheek, jaw, or gums, often accompanied by a pimple-like bump on the gum line, which can signal a serious infection.
  • Lost Filling or Crown with Pain: If a restoration falls out and the exposed tooth is causing significant pain.

Any trauma to the mouth, jaw, or face that results in pain, bleeding, or broken teeth also qualifies as an emergency that needs prompt evaluation.

Why Fast Care is Essential

When you’re facing a dental emergency, time is critical. Seeking immediate care can make all the difference for your health and well-being. Fast treatment helps to save a tooth that might otherwise be lost, especially in the case of a knocked-out tooth. It also significantly reduces the risk of infection spreading to other parts of your body.

Acting quickly allows us to preserve the function of your teeth, get you out of pain faster, and often minimizes the need for more complex and costly treatments down the road.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Before you get to our office, here are a few practical steps you can take:

  • For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Gently rinse the tooth with water, avoiding the root. Try to place it back in the socket. If you can’t, keep it moist in a small container of milk or your own saliva and come to our office immediately.
  • For Swelling: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce inflammation.
  • For Bleeding: Use a clean piece of gauze and apply gentle, firm pressure to the area.
  • For Pain: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums as it can burn the tissue.

We’re Here When You Need Us in Gibsonton

Dental emergencies don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Your Time Dental is here for you with extended hours on Fridays and weekend availability. We welcome walk-in appointments for emergency dental care, so you never have to wait in pain for standard business hours.

Our office is the place to be when you are experiencing a dental emergency in the South Tampa area. We can diagnose your problem, provide effective treatment, and get you out of pain quickly. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Don’t wait and hope the pain goes away. Contact us or walk in for the immediate, compassionate care you deserve.

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

Sep19

Lost a Filling or Crown? Here’s What to Do Next (And Why You Shouldn’t Wait)

Categories: Dental Crowns, Dental Emergency

It’s a sensation that can cause instant panic: you’re eating or brushing your teeth, and suddenly, you notice a hard piece in your mouth that isn’t food. A filling has come loose, or a crown has popped off. While it might not always be painful, it’s a dental issue that requires immediate attention. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, Dr. Rick Kernagis and our team understand that dental emergencies don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. Here’s what you should do if you lose a filling or crown and why you shouldn’t delay seeking professional care.

Immediate Steps for a Lost Filling or Crown

First, carefully remove the lost piece from your mouth to avoid swallowing or inhaling it. If it’s a crown, keep it in a safe, clean container. You might be able to have it re-cemented if it’s still in good condition.

Next, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce any irritation. Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth to prevent further damage or sensitivity. The exposed tooth structure is weaker and more vulnerable to chipping, cracking, or decay.

For temporary relief until you can see a dentist, you can use dental wax or temporary filling material, often available at drugstores, to cover the exposed area. If it’s a crown that has come off, a small dab of dental adhesive or even denture cream can help hold it in place temporarily. However, these are not long-term solutions and should only be used to protect your tooth until your appointment.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to See a Dentist

Ignoring a lost filling or crown can lead to more serious problems. The exposed inner layers of your tooth, known as dentin, are much softer than enamel and more susceptible to decay. Without the protection of the filling or crown, bacteria can easily invade, leading to a new cavity or a painful infection that may require a root canal.

Furthermore, a lost restoration can cause your surrounding teeth to shift into the empty space. This change can affect your bite, leading to jaw pain and making it difficult to properly fit a new crown or filling later on. Seeking urgent care quickly ensures the problem is addressed before these complications arise, saving you time, money, and discomfort.

We’re Here When You Need Us

In the greater South Tampa area, finding immediate dental care can be a challenge, especially outside of regular business hours. That’s why Your Time Dental lives up to its name. We believe you should get the care you need at a time that works for you. Our practice stays open on weekends to ensure you’re never left dealing with a dental emergency alone.

Don’t wait for a small problem to become a major one. If you’ve lost a filling or crown, contact Your Time Dental immediately. Dr. Rick Kernagis and our dedicated team are ready to provide the urgent, compassionate care you need to restore your smile and your peace of mind.

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

Aug22

Don’t Wait: Why Your Serious Toothache Needs Immediate Attention

Categories: Dental Emergency, Toothache, Urgent Dental Care

A throbbing toothache at 2 AM on Sunday morning might seem like the worst possible timing, but dental emergencies don’t wait for business hours. If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, waiting until Monday could turn a manageable situation into a costly, complex dental crisis. Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, understands that dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Led by Dr. Rick Kernagis, this practice serves patients throughout Gibsonton, Lithia, and Bradenton, providing comprehensive urgent care services seven days a week, including Sundays.

Why Delaying Treatment Makes Everything Worse

Dental pain is your body’s alarm system. When you feel that sharp, persistent ache, it’s often a sign that bacteria have invaded the inner layers of your tooth. The longer you wait, the deeper the infection can spread, potentially reaching your jawbone, surrounding tissues, or even your bloodstream.

What starts as a simple cavity requiring a basic filling can escalate into:

  • Root canal therapy
  • Tooth extraction
  • Abscess formation
  • Sepsis (a life-threatening infection)

Studies show that untreated dental infections can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health complications. The American Dental Association reports that emergency room visits for dental issues have increased by 16% over the past decade, largely because people delay necessary treatment.

Dental Issues That Can’t Wait Until Tomorrow

Not every dental discomfort requires emergency care, but certain symptoms demand immediate attention:

Severe, constant pain that interferes with eating, sleeping, or concentrating signals possible nerve damage or infection. This pain often worsens with temperature changes or pressure.

Facial swelling around your jaw, cheek, or neck indicates a spreading infection that could become dangerous if left untreated.

Knocked-out or cracked teeth have the best chance of being saved when treated within the first hour after injury.

Bleeding that won’t stop following dental work or injury needs professional assessment to prevent complications.

Lost fillings or crowns expose sensitive tooth structures to bacteria and further damage.

The Value of Weekend and Emergency Dental Care

Traditional dental offices operate Monday through Friday, leaving millions of Americans without options when dental emergencies strike during evenings, weekends, or holidays. This gap in care forces many people to either suffer through the pain or seek expensive emergency room treatment that only provides temporary pain relief, not actual dental solutions.

Weekend dentistry bridges this critical gap, offering professional dental treatment exactly when you need it most.

Your Time Dental: Emergency Care When You Need It

Dr. Kernagis and his team recognize that weekend availability isn’t just convenient—it’s essential for preventing minor issues from becoming major problems. Their weekend and emergency services include:

  • Pain management and infection control
  • Emergency extractions
  • Temporary and permanent restorations
  • Root canal therapy
  • Treatment for dental trauma

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Dental emergencies rarely resolve on their own. Over-the-counter pain medications might temporarily mask symptoms, but they don’t address the underlying problem. While you’re waiting and hoping the pain subsides, bacteria continue multiplying, and damage continues spreading.

If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, don’t gamble with your health by waiting for regular business hours. Your Time Dental’s weekend availability means you can receive professional treatment promptly, potentially saving your tooth, your money, and your overall health.

Remember: the cost of emergency dental care today is always less than the cost of complex reconstructive work tomorrow. Don’t let a treatable dental issue become a life-threatening emergency. Seek professional care at the first sign of serious dental problems.

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

Jul11

Why Dentures Are a Trusted Replacement for Missing Teeth

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dentures, Restorative Dentistry

Missing teeth can present more than just a cosmetic challenge—they can affect your daily life, oral health, and confidence. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers effective solutions, with dentures being a reliable option for many. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, serving the South Tampa area, Dr. Kernagis and the team are here to help patients restore their smiles with custom dentures. Whether you’re seeking full or partial replacements, dentures deliver a comprehensive solution to fit your needs.

The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

When you lose a tooth, the effects go beyond appearance. Gaps in your smile can lead to difficulties with chewing and speaking, shifting of nearby teeth, and even changes in facial structure over time. Not replacing teeth can also contribute to bone loss in the jaw, which can weaken overall oral health.

Replacing missing teeth isn’t just about looking good—it’s about maintaining functional balance, preventing long-term dental problems, and providing confidence in everyday interactions. Dentures are an excellent answer to these challenges, as they restore proper function and safeguard oral health for years to come.

Why Choose Dentures?

Here’s why dentures are a strong choice for replacing missing teeth:

1. Improved Functionality

Dentures are carefully designed to restore chewing ability, making it easier to enjoy your favorite meals again. With a proper fit, you can eat and speak comfortably, without the frustrations often associated with missing teeth.

2. Enhanced Aesthetics

Missing teeth can take away from a confident smile, but dentures can bring it back. Custom dentures are crafted to look natural and blend seamlessly with your facial features, helping you feel great about your appearance.

3. Restored Confidence

One of the most immediate benefits of dentures is the boost in confidence. Knowing you have a full, bright smile allows you to approach life with renewed self-assurance, whether at work, social gatherings, or family events.

4. Protection for Long-Term Oral Health

Dentures maintain more than just your appearance—they also support the health of your jaw and surrounding teeth. By filling gaps, dentures prevent nearby teeth from drifting out of alignment, which could lead to excessive wear or damage. They also reduce the risk of further complications, such as bone loss.

5. Custom, Comfortable Fit

Modern dentures are not the bulky, awkward devices of years past. Today’s advancements ensure that dentures are lightweight, comfortable, and made to feel as much like your natural teeth as possible. At Your Time Dental, Dr. Kernagis works with patients individually, ensuring the most precise fit.

Your Time Dental Is Here for You

At Your Time Dental, we understand that dental concerns can arise at any time, which is why we offer both urgent and weekend care. Dr. Kernagis and our dedicated team are committed to making sure your oral health needs are met when they matter most. Whether you’re looking for a solution to missing teeth or need assistance in an emergency, our office ensures compassionate, expert care on your schedule.

Don’t wait to reclaim your smile and restore your confidence. Dentures offer a sturdy, reliable solution that improves not just how you look but also how you live. Reach out to Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kernagis. Together, we can find the perfect solution to meet your needs and create a healthier, happier 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

Jun20

How Urgent Dental Care From Your Time Dental Can Save Your Chipped Tooth

Categories: Dental Emergency, Emergency Dentist, Restorative Dentistry

A chipped tooth often happens when you least expect it—a sudden fall, biting into something too hard, or an unfortunate accident during sports. While it might not seem like a big deal at first glance, ignoring a chipped tooth can lead to pain, sensitivity, and even more significant damage. Fortunately, urgent dental care can help you address the issue quickly and preserve your smile.

If you’re in Gibsonton, FL, Dr. Kernagis at Your Time Dental offers convenient emergency dental care, ensuring you get the help you need without delay.

Why Is Treating a Chipped Tooth Urgently Important?

When a tooth is chipped, the enamel—the tooth’s outer protective layer—gets damaged. Without this protection, the sensitive inner layers, such as dentin and pulp, are exposed to bacteria, heat, and pressure. This can lead to:

  • Pain and Sensitivity: Exposed nerves may cause discomfort when you eat, drink, or touch the area.
  • Further Damage: A small chip can turn into a larger crack if left untreated, risking deeper structural issues.
  • Potential Infection: Bacteria can enter through the damaged tooth, leading to infections or abscesses.

Seeking urgent dental care not only relieves immediate discomfort but also prevents long-term complications.

How Emergency Dental Care Fixes a Chipped Tooth

At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, Dr. Kernagis specializes in providing effective and convenient emergency dental care. Here’s what you can expect when you visit for a chipped tooth:

1. Quick Assessment and Diagnosis

Dr. Kernagis will first examine your tooth to assess the extent of the damage. This may involve an X-ray to check for deeper cracks or internal issues.

2. Treatment Options

Depending on the severity of the chip, several treatment methods may be recommended:

  • Dental Bonding: For minor chips, a tooth-colored resin can be applied and shaped to restore your tooth’s appearance and function.
  • Dental Veneers: For larger chips that affect the front teeth, a veneer may be used to cover the damage and enhance your smile.
  • Dental Crown: If the damage is significant, a crown may be placed over the tooth to strengthen and protect it.
  • Root Canal and Crown (if necessary): For chips that expose the pulp or cause infection, a root canal may be required before a crown can be placed.

3. Immediate Pain Relief

Dr. Kernagis’s approach to emergency dentistry includes prioritizing your comfort and ensuring minimal pain during the restoration process.

Don’t Wait—Your Smile Deserves Immediate Care

Ignoring a chipped tooth might lead to further dental issues, but with Dr. Kernagis and the team at Your Time Dental, you don’t have to wait to get the care you need. Offering flexible hours and expert emergency treatment, Your Time Dental ensures your smile is back to its best in no time.

If you have a chipped tooth or another dental emergency in Gibsonton, FL, contact us today to schedule an urgent appointment. Protect your smile—your time (and teeth) matter.

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

May23

5 Signs You Need to See an Emergency Dentist in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, Emergency Dentist

f you’ve experienced sudden dental pain or suffered an oral injury, you may be wondering if it warrants an emergency dentist visit. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful. That’s why we’re here to provide expert care and peace of mind when you need it most. Dr. Rick Kernagis and our dedicated team are proud to serve the Gibsonton and greater South Tampa area—even on weekends.

5 Signs You Need to See an Emergency Dentist Right Away

Some dental issues simply cannot wait. Here are five warning signs that you should contact an urgent care dentist immediately:

1. Severe Tooth Pain

Unrelenting or sharp tooth pain could point to a serious issue such as an infection, abscess, or significant decay. It’s important to have this addressed before it worsens.

2. Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth

Accidents happen, and a broken or knocked-out tooth is a common dental emergency. Acting quickly gives you the best chance for saving the tooth. Keep the tooth moist (in milk or saliva) and call us as soon as possible.

3. Swelling or Bleeding That Won’t Stop

Uncontrolled bleeding or swelling in your mouth, gums, or jaw could indicate trauma, gum disease, or even an infection. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to more serious health complications.

4. Signs of an Abscess

If you notice a painful lump in your gums, along with swelling, fever, or a sour taste, you could have an oral abscess. This infection requires immediate attention to prevent it from spreading.

5. A Lost Filling or Crown

Losing a filling or crown may not feel urgent at first, but it exposes the tooth to bacteria, which could lead to decay or infection. It’s best to address this issue promptly.

Dental Emergencies We Handle

At Your Time Dental, we specialize in treating various dental emergencies. Common services include:

  • Tooth extractions for damaged or infected teeth
  • Root canal therapy for severe pain or abscesses
  • Urgent care for chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth
  • Relief for gum swelling or oral infections
  • Emergency repairs for crowns, fillings, or bridges

No matter the issue, Dr. Kernagis is here to provide compassionate and efficient care to restore your smile and comfort.

A Dentist Open on Weekends for Your Convenience

Dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule—that’s why Your Time Dental offers flexible hours, making it easier for you to get the care you need, when you need it. We’re proud to be a dentist open on weekends for residents of Gibsonton and the greater South Tampa area.

Don’t Wait. Call Us Today.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, don’t delay. Dental emergencies can escalate quickly, potentially leading to more pain, costly treatment, or even health risks.

At Your Time Dental, we’re committed to providing high-quality, urgent dental care, right when you need it. Contact us today to schedule an emergency appointment with Dr. Rick Kernagis and his team. Your comfort and oral health are our priority!

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