Blog

Jan10

How Urgent Dental Care Can Save Your Chipped Tooth

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):

Dec27

Suspect a Bite Problem?

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):

Dec20

Implants or Traditional Dentures? Ask Yourself These Questions When Choosing

If you want to restore your smile due to extensive tooth loss, you have an essential decision. Will you choose conventional dentures? Will you choose tooth implants? There is really no contest when you consider the advantages of implants. Your Time Dental offers lasting dental implant solutions.

Let’s compare conventional removable dentures and dental implant procedures.

Feel

Dentures sit right on the gums. An adhesive is used to help maintain the daily fit A permanent dental implant is surgically fixed into the jawbone similar to one’s original teeth. Dentures fit like there is an obstruction in one’s mouth. Denture wearers say they feel bulky and uncomfortable. Implants feel and function like one’s real teeth.

Do you like the idea of putting adhesive in your mouth?

Effective years

Dentures typically last 7 to 15 years. As discussed previously, as one’s jawbone changes shape, dentures need to be adjusted to fit. Permanent dental implants are fitted once. the longest-lasting solution.

Do you want a long-lasting tooth replacement that preserves your oral health?

Cost

Dentures are the least expensive solution. But you get what you pay for. Although dentures are less expensive they are prone to problems. Implants have a higher upfront cost but are cost effective due to the fact that they are more like one’s original teeth.

What is more critical than speaking, eating, and tasting? What is your jawbone worth?

Bone Loss

This is a huge advantage, but it is relatively less known to men and women who don’t know much about teeth implants. Dentures lead to bone loss over time. This deterioration of the bone changes the shape of one’s jawbone. Implants help stimulate the jawbone. This bone stimulation helps to preserve the shape of the bone therefore maintaining one’s facial structure. This is one of the reasons denture wearers need to continually have their dentures relined. What is a reline? Relining is resurfacing the tissue side of a denture. Material is added to the appliance. Part of the reason that denture wearers need periodic relines is because their jawbone is diminishing. As it recedes, the dimensions of the jaw change.

Do you want to replace your shrinking jawbone with acrylic?

Speech

Dentures often get in the way of one’s speech patterns. Especially if they move around in the mouth. Implants don’t interfere with speaking. Because tooth implants are anchored securely in the jawbone, they don’t restrict speech at all.

Do you want to be able to speak normally?

Eating

Dentures require one to abstain from certain foods. Sticky or hard foods are difficult or even impossible to chew with dentures. It’s not only more difficult to chew these foods, but you can’t get certain foods off the dentures after eating. Denture wearers frequently have to give up steak, raw vegetables, popcorn, shelled nuts, sticky candy, and peanut butter. Implants renew one’s confidence in chewing any variety of food.

What foods do you want to give up?

We hope you have learned something about the vital choice you have when considering tooth replacement options. If you want to learn more about the advantages of dental implants, schedule a consultation today.

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

Dec13

Seeking A Relationship In the Gibsonton Area?

Are you one of the many Tampa area singles looking for a significant other? Perhaps you recently broke off a dysfunctional partnership and are determined to make a better choice this time around.

I’m not talking about a relationship with a girlfriend, boyfriend, or spouse – I’m talking about something equally important – your relationship with your Gibsonton dentist. (…I admit my obvious bias.)

Why did you break up with your last Apollo Beach dentist? Did he/she cause you to fear, guilt, and pain? Perhaps you quit seeing your dentist because it was a love-hate relationship – you hated going and he/she loved making you wait.

Was your previous Fish Hawk dentist insensitive to your concerns? Was he/she a poor communicator? Perhaps you have simply moved into the Gibsonton area and need a new provider.

At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, we understand that many patients are nervous (okay – downright terrified) about dental visits. I also realize that no patient wants to be given a shameful lecture about their oral health.

Though Dr. Kernagis has years of experience and extensive training on all the latest dental procedures, some things can’t be learned in dental school; how to build trusting relationships with your patients and create a relaxed atmosphere in your dental practice.

Gibsonton dental patients can feel very vulnerable as they lie in the chair with their mouths open. We maintain a friendly environment in our pleasant office. We manage our practice carefully to minimize waiting and provide ample time for each valued patient.

Effective communication is a priority. I make sure my Gibsonton dentistry patients understand their restorative and cosmetic options and answer all their questions before we develop a treatment plan.

If you are currently seeking a considerate, experienced, and sensitive Gibsonton dentist, I look forward to meeting you.

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

Nov29

Modern Dentistry In Gibsonton

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):

Nov22

Your Time Dental Urgent Care Is Here For You

Hello, 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):

Nov15

Gently Now (Protect Your Gums When You Brush)

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):

Nov8

7 Steps For A Healthy Smile

“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):

Oct25

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

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):

Oct18

Have You Thanked Your Dental Assistant Lately?

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.

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):

Mon:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Tue:	7:00am - 5:00pm
Wed:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Thu:	7:00am - 5:00pm
Fri:	7:00am - 7:00pm
Sat:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Sun:	8:00am - 6:00pm

Mon:	8:00am - 5:00pm
Tue:	7:00am - 5:00pm
Wed:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Thu:	8:00am - 5:00pm
Fri:	7:00am - 5:00pm
Sat:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Sun:	8:00am - 6:00pm

Mon:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Tue:	7:00am - 5:00pm
Wed:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Thu:	7:00am - 5:00pm
Fri:	8:00am - 5:00pm
Sat:	8:00am - 6:00pm
Sun:	Closed

Why Is Treating a Chipped Tooth Urgently Important?

How Emergency Dental Care Fixes a Chipped Tooth

1. Quick Assessment and Diagnosis

2. Treatment Options

3. Immediate Pain Relief

Don’t Wait—Your Smile Deserves Immediate Care

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

Malocclusion Affects Many People

Malocclusion Has Multiple Causes

Childhood Behaviors Can Cause Bite Problems

Dentists Can Treat Malocclusion

Don’t Ignore Bite Problems

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

Longer or Harder?

Why?

Let’s Review

What If You Already Have Gum Recession?

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

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

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