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Jul12

Is Grandpa Smiling?

elderly oral health Gibsonton

How are Americans doing when it comes to the dental health of the 65+ population?

The Good News:

The rate of decay in the elderly has decreased in the past thirty years.1

The Bad News:
25% of persons age 65+ have no remaining teeth2
Nearly 20% have untreated cavities3
10% of adults 65 and over have moderate to severe periodontal disease.
There is evidence to suggest that advanced gum disease is linked to diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory disease
Most older Americans don’t have dental insurance

Clearly, there is room for improvement. What vital circumstances will improve the oral health of age 65+ Americans? The National Institutes of Health cite three necessary components:

  • Improved oral health education for the elderly
  • Seniors practicing effective daily oral hygiene
  • Increased access to dental care

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care in Gibsonton, we are dedicated to providing our elderly patients with comprehensive oral health education and attentive care that addresses the special challenges that affect seniors. These challenges include difficulty brushing and flossing due to arthritis, dry mouth caused by prescription medications, tooth sensitivity, bone recession, and complications due to diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

We want our elderly patients to not only have a healthy smile, but a beautiful one as well. Many of our senior patients have elected to improve their smiles with services such as crowns, inlays/onlays, dental bonding, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and tooth whitening. The majority of our smile redesign patients are thrilled with their new smile and report that it has improved their lives immensely. They feel happier, more attractive, and more confident in social settings.

The comfortable team at Your Time Dental Urgent Care on Gibsonton provides the full spectrum of general and cosmetic dental care for Gibsonton area patients of all ages including weekend dental care, sedation dentistry, and root canals.

1“Periodontal Disease in Seniors (Age 65 and Over),” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/DataStatistics/FindDataByTopic/GumDisease/PeriodontaldiseaseSeniors65over.htm, accessed on November 24, 2015

2“Oral Health for Older Americans,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/factsheets/adult_oral_health/adult_older.htm, accessed on November 24, 2015

3“Dental Caries and Tooth Loss in Adults in the United States, 2011–2012,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db197.htm, accessed on November 24, 2015

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

Jun21

Your Time Dental Urgent Care Treats Canker Sores, Lesions, And Fever Blisters

Categories: Dental Emergency, General Dentistry

Your Time Dental Urgent Care Treats Cankers Sores Lesions and Fever Blisters

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, one of the most common complaints we hear from Gibsonton dentistry patients is problems with mouth sores.

There are many different kinds of oral lesions that can make eating and talking painful. Some are annoying yet harmless, while other sores are more serious and require medical intervention.

Though not contagious, the most common complaint is canker sores, which affect an estimated eighty percent of the Apollo Beach population. Canker sores can be attributed to stress, tissue irritation, or acidic foods.

Dr. Richard Kernagis can prescribe a topical dental paste to relieve pain and guard against infection. Recurring canker sores can sometimes be a symptom of a larger health problem.

Another common complaint is fever blisters or cold sores, which are contagious fluid-filled blisters. Tampa cold sore sufferers should be aware that they can become infected. At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we advise our patients on how to treat cold sores and avoid further breakouts.

Fungal infections and oral cancer can cause sores in the mouth and throat. See your Tampa dentist if you experience any of the following:

Lumps or discolored patches in the mouth lasting longer than three weeks
Unusually large lesions
Multiple sores

Dr. Richard Kernagis reminds patients that eating a well balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and not smoking can all aid in oral health and hygiene.

To schedule an appointment, or ask about other oral concerns, contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care today at 813-519-0128.

Your Time Dental Urgent Care in Gibsonton provides the full spectrum of general, cosmetic, and pediatric dental services. We offer weekend dental care, sedation dentistry, root canals, dental implants, tooth extractions, and complete smile makeovers.

The following online articles were used as source material for this blog:
‘Mouth Sores,’ American Academy of Otolaryngology, December 2010, http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/mouthSores.cfm, accessed on November 29, 2011
‘Dental Health and Canker Sores,’ WebMD, November 2011, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/canker-sores, accessed on November 29, 2011

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

Jun7

Raise Your Dental IQ in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Raise Your Dental IQ

There are many simple things that a health-conscious person can do to raise their Dental IQ and improve their oral health. At Your Time Dental, we want all our Florida patients to be as informed as possible. One simple lesson involves bacteria, and everyone’s mouth has a lot of it.

But, don’t worry, bacteria per se isn’t the problem. Dental problems occur for patients when the balance of bacteria becomes unhealthy. This is where brushing and flossing come into play. Brush and floss properly each day and you will have a better chance of keeping the appropriate balance.

This is yucky to think about—but it’s a good idea to store your toothpaste as far away from the toilet as you can. Also, close the lid of the toilet before you flush.

Make sure to wash your hands before you brush and floss. No exceptions!

When it comes to a good toothbrush, don’t get sentimental. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. If you can avoid the unhealthy balance of bacteria in your mouth, you can avoid gum disease, tooth decay, as well as bad breath.

If your teeth are sensitive, avoid rinsing off your teeth after you brush. The fluoride in the toothpaste can help remineralize your enamel. If you go to bed with some toothpaste left on your teeth, it has a chance to go to work.

If you can avoid decay, it’s less likely that you will need more extensive dental work such as dental implants and crowns.

Dr. Richard Kernagis is passionate about helping patients maintain healthy teeth and beautiful smiles.

 

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

Mar17

Why Visit The Dentist?

Why Visit The Dentist?

In today’s post, we share a personal story from a patient:

For many years, I didn’t have ‘go to the dentist’ at the top of my to-do list.

But all that has changed. I now consider visits a fundamental part of my personal health plan. 

Here’s why…

Teeth won’t stay healthy without regular dental visits. I’ve come to realize this more definitively as I get older. From the obvious functional utility to the important cosmetic nature of teeth, we literally can’t live without them.

When it comes to functional utility, teeth are a foundation of our health. We use them to eat every day. The status of our teeth can impose unnecessary restrictions on our diet. With no teeth at all, our diet might be so restricted we don’t get the necessary nutrition. 

For those who don’t have teeth, this is a sobering realization. Dentures and other prosthetic solutions can help. There are substitutes for the real thing, but having your own natural teeth is preferred.

When it comes to the cosmetic side, there isn’t an alternative to a bright and toothy smile. It may be the most noticeable element of our face. Having an attractive smile our self-esteem.

I’ve learned that a healthy smile is more than just a nice set of teeth. It contributes to all personal interactions.

Aging combined with poor dental hygiene is perilous for teeth. The simple process of eating causes wear and tear. A continuous bacterial onslaught threatens the protective enamel. Cavities, periodontitis (advanced gum disease), and trauma round out the list of detriments that could separate us from our teeth.

We Want To Help You Have a Healthy Smile

Healthy oral habits are, of course, the best way to keep your teeth in great shape. Practicing daily oral hygiene will improve your health now and in the future.

Regular dental visits are also vital. Your dentist can help you improve the health of your teeth. Your Time Dental Urgent Care can help you discover oral dilemmas before they become destructive.

Since your teeth are central to your overall health, it is critical to find a trusted dentist who can help.

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we have extended hours. We can accommodate your schedule.

 

Contact 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: 813-519-0128

ArticleID 7774
Jul1

Crown Or Veneer?

cosmetic dentistry Gibsonton

I am Richard Kernagis of Your Time Dental Urgent Care in Gibsonton. Your Time Dental Urgent Care offers multiple cosmetic dental procedures for creating brilliant smiles. Two of the most popular procedures are dental crowns and porcelain veneers. Many patients don’t understand the difference between the two. Generally, a crown strengthens a compromised tooth while a veneer is used mainly for cosmetic improvements.

Let’s discuss it in more detail.

Dental Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers

A dental crown covers the entire visible part of the tooth. A veneer is an ultra-thin layer for the front of a tooth. Ceramic laminate is used to create durable veneers. Crowns can be made of all-porcelain (ceramic), porcelain fused to metal, or gold. Both crowns and veneers are affixed to the tooth with a special adhesive. Crowns and veneers are durable and can last many years if properly cared for, though they are not stronger than natural enamel.

Both of these procedures improve the tooth aesthetically, but dental crowns are typically a better solution for a tooth that has been compromised by decay, damage, or a root canal. Veneers can repair the shape of a tooth, repair a minor crack, cover stains, or straighten the appearance of teeth that are slightly misaligned.

Your Dentist and the Dental Lab Technician Work Together

The success of a crown or veneer procedure depends on expert professionals at the lab and in the dentist’s office. Your cosmetic dentist must prep the tooth, create a precision mold, and submit an accurate order to the lab.

The role of the dental lab technician is equally critical.  Highly skilled lab technicians fabricate custom dental crowns and veneers to the specifications of the cosmetic dentist. They must have the proficiency to meet the precise standards necessary for successful restorations.

A veneer has everything you want: the exact shape, the exact size, the precise color, and the proper placement in the mouth. This is a case of all or nothing—each aspect must be perfect or it needs to be reconstructed.

The team at Your Time Dental Urgent Care and the marvelous staff at our dental lab work together to provide the highest quality dental restorations for our valued patients.

We are accepting new patients!

If you would like more helpful specifics about crowns, veneers, and other cosmetic dental procedures, I invite you to reach out to us to schedule a cosmetic dental consultation. I can help you achieve a smile that is both healthy and remarkable. Call 813-519-0128 today!

 

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

 

ArticleID 7129
May20

Osteoporosis And Oral Health

Your Time Dental Urgent CareIf you are a woman, you have probably heard about the high rate of osteoporosis in the country, and the state of Florida is no exception.

Did you know that many studies have suggested a connection between osteoporosis and oral health? Osteoporosis can often progress without any outward symptoms. However, there may be clues in a person’s mouth that indicate compromised bones in the rest of the body.

The following dental and periodontal conditions may indicate the presence of osteoporosis:

  • DetachedGumCAP
  • Ill-fitting dentures
  • Jaw bone recession and erosion
  • Difficulty with normal mouth function such as eating or speaking

Women over 50 with a family history have the greatest risk of developing the disease, but it is not unheard of in men.

Dr. Kernagis can establish the presence of jawbone deterioration with x-rays and other diagnostic tools. If we suspect the possibility of osteoporosis, we can refer you to a local medical professional.

Dr. Kernagis is trained in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the oral health problems connected to osteoporosis. Schedule a consultation by calling 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

 

ArticleID 921
May6

Should Teens See a General or Pediatric Dentist?

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, General Dentistry

when should my child transition from a pediatric to general dentist? Tampa

Some moms and dads in the Tampa area bring their child to a pediatric dentist. Others use a general or family dentist for every member of their household.

What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?

Pediatric dentists have specialized training to treat infants, young children and adolescents. They use special dental tools created for smaller mouths. Some pediatric dentists have training in child psychology which can help make children feel comfortable during dental treatment.

When should my child transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist? Some parents transition their youngsters to a general dentist as soon as all their child’s permanent teeth come in. Other parents have their children see a pediatric dentist until their late teens.

Does your teen feel comfortable at a pediatric dental practice?

Sometimes, when a child hits their early teen years, they feel uncomfortable at a pediatric dental practice. This is especially true if the office is furnished and geared toward toddlers and pre-teens. In this case, the teen may choose the right time to transition.

Above all, it’s important that your child feels comfortable at the dentist. If your child starts feeling like they are too old to see a pediatric dentist, it’s time to switch to a general dentist.

We understand the oral health needs of your son or daughter.

Remember that the team at Your Time Dental Urgent Care is willing and able to address adolescent dental needs. We are happy to treat your teen through their adolescent years.

What dental issues should I be watching for during adolescence?

First off, pay attention to your teenager’s nutrition. As children become more independent, they start making more of their own food choices. If you visit any Gibsonton-area middle school or high school during lunch, you will notice that some teens drink soda and energy drinks. Most of those teens most likely drank milk during elementary school. Make sure you get enough calcium to keep your teeth strong. Vaping and smoking take a toll on physical and dental health. Unfortunately, they are too common among the teen group in the Tampa area.

Your dentist is an essential member of your teen’s healthcare team.

Your dentist can help you understand how their diet and lifestyle influence their oral health. If your son or daughter struggles with an eating disorder, a dentist can address any related dental issues. If your teen is undergoing orthodontic treatment, your dentist can monitor their teeth closely during a time when it’s more difficult to keep teeth clean and free of cavities

Regardless of when you transition your teen to a general dentist, make sure they see a dentist at least twice a year. Continue to monitor their oral hygiene practices and set a good example. Watch out for destructive habits. Furthermore, make sure they wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports.

The team at Your Time Dental Urgent Care has been serving families in the Tampa area since 2001. We value the relationships we have developed with our patients and their families. If you are looking for an experienced, caring family and general dentist in the Gibsonton area, give us a call to schedule a consultation.

 

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

 

ArticleID 8616
Apr29

Did You Know That You Can Change the Shape of Your Gums?

Categories: Dental Emergency, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

gum contouring Fish Hawk

Most dental patients know that cosmetic, restorative, and orthodontic dentistry procedures improve your teeth. There are treatments to reshape teeth, straighten teeth, correct damaged teeth, whiten teeth, and replace missing teeth. But what about your gums? Are you aware of how much your gums affect the look of your smile?

You Can Contour Your Gums

The shape and size of your gumline can make your teeth appear too large or too small or otherwise out of proportion. Gum contouring can repair gums that appear too low or too high in relation to the teeth and tailor them for the perfect smile.

People who are unhappy with their gums might want to consider gum contouring. Many dentists and periodontists offer gum contouring surgery.

Gingival Sculpting

This procedure is also called gingival sculpting, gingival contouring, or gum graft surgery, but don’t let the term surgery frighten you. Cosmetic gum contouring is performed using a precision laser. The procedure usually involves little pain and requires no recovery time.

Gum Contouring Can Treat Gum Recession

Gum reshaping is not always done for purely cosmetic reasons, it is also used to treat gum recession, a common condition that can lead to decay and tooth loss.

In gum graft surgery, soft tissue is often taken either from the roof of the mouth, the area surrounding the site of the grafting, or a tissue bank. Gingival grafts used to cover exposed tooth roots can protect against continued gum recession and alleviate tooth sensitivity. Of course, gum grafts often increase the attractiveness of the smile in the process.

If you are seeking more information about gum contouring or other dental procedures, call Your Time Dental Urgent Care today at 813-519-0128 to schedule a consultation.

We provide quality dentistry to patients in Gibsonton and the greater Tampa area.

 

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

 

ArticleID 6774
Apr22

Your Smile Can Be Brighter and Lighter

Categories: Dental Emergency, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Gibsonton teeth whitening

To enhance your smile, all you need to do is pick up the phone and make an appointment with Your Time Dental Urgent Care.

A Smile You Want to Show Off

A whiter smile can change your life significantly. Many of our patients feel more self-assured in personal and professional settings with their new, whiter smiles. White teeth brighten your smile and give you a reason to show them off. Who doesn’t need another reason to smile?

Tooth Whitening Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

We can help you beautify your teeth through a number of solutions that range in cost. The least expensive teeth whitening treatments are those that you can do yourself at home. The quickest and easiest are the in-office professional teeth bleaching treatments.

If you are interested in a brilliant smile, give us a call at 813-519-0128 to make a teeth whitening appointment. The hardest part will be dialing the phone, and in no time we’ll have you smiling bright.

Let’s Fix Those Chips and Cracks

Perhaps your teeth have additional issues besides dull color. We can help you with all types of problems including chipped teeth, crooked teeth, uneven gum line, and even missing teeth.

Dental Work Doesn’t Last Forever

Do you have old dental work that needs to be replaced? How about silver amalgam fillings? We offer porcelain crowns and white fillings. If you replace old siver fillings with tooth-colored restorations, when you open your mouth to laugh, your teeth will look like they did before you had even one cavity!

We Are Here to Provide All of Your Dental Needs

The comfortable team of dental professionals at Your Time Dental Urgent Care provide the full spectrum of general and cosmetic dental services including urgent dental care, emergency 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: 813-519-0128

 

ArticleID 8572
Apr15

Correcting Severe Dental Problems At Your Time Dental Urgent Care

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Emergency, General Dentistry

 Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed in Tampa can address a specific dental problem. For example, a porcelain veneer can correct the surface of a tooth that is discolored or slightly misshapen. Dental bonding can fill a small chip in an otherwise healthy tooth.

Some Gibsonton dental problems are more extensive and require a combination of procedures. Crown restoration combined with soft tissue grafts can restore a severely decayed tooth with the root exposed. A bone graft and dental implant can restore a missing tooth in an area where the jaw bone has receded. Orthodontia followed by tooth bleaching totally transforms a smile by straightening and whitening.

What is the difference between tooth bleaching and whitening? Whitening is the term for procedures which remove surface stains to restore the degree of natural lightness. Bleaching goes even further by lightening teeth beyond their natural shade. That’s right: you don’t have to resign yourself to yellow teeth even if they have been that way your whole life! The natural shade of your teeth, by the way, like your skin and hair color, is determined by genetics.

Some Gibsonton smiles have been gleaming for years by regular whitening. You can maintain the whiteness of your teeth just as you maintain your fitness level. (Of course, it is a lot easier to make a quick visit to your Gibsonton dentist once a year for whitening touch-ups than sweating in a gym several times a week!)

We live in an age where severe dental problems can be permanently corrected. You don’t have to participate in a TV makeover show in Hollywood to access these premium cosmetic dental procedures. They are available right here in Gibsonton, Apollo Beach and Fish Hawk. Richard Kernagis has the same advanced training and extensive experience as the dentists who keep the smiles of famous actors and musicians camera-ready.

Schedule a consultation at Your Time Dental Urgent Care to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate smile. Our phone number is 813-519-0128.

We make patients feel comfortable

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

813-519-0128

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Locations: (Tap to open in Google Maps):

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

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

 

ArticleID 950