emergency dentist

Jun6

5 Signs You May Need a Tooth Pulled in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Health, Tooth Extraction

To maintain your oral health, tooth extractions can sometimes be necessary. While preserving your natural teeth is always the goal, there are specific situations where pulling a tooth is the best or only option to ensure long-term dental health. If you’re in Gibsonton, FL, and surrounding areas like Apollo Beach, Ruskin, or Lithia, Your Time Dental is here to provide compassionate and expert care. Led by Dr. Rick Kernagis, we specialize in addressing dental needs, including tooth extractions, with a gentle approach.

But how do you know when extraction is necessary? Here are five key signs that may mean it’s time to visit us for an evaluation.

Five Major Signs You Need a Tooth Pulled

1. Severe Tooth Pain

Tooth pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medications and persists or intensifies should never be ignored. Constant or sharp pain can indicate advanced decay, a severe infection, or damage to the tooth’s structure. If left untreated, the infection could spread to other areas, which makes a tooth extraction a necessary option to relieve pain and protect your oral health.

2. Swollen Gums or Jaw

Swelling around your tooth or jaw could point to a serious infection or abscess. Bacteria can build up around the tooth’s root, leading to inflammation and significant discomfort. If this problem cannot be resolved through other treatments, extracting the tooth may be the best solution to eliminate the infection and prevent complications.

3. Advanced Periodontal Disease

Gum disease, particularly in its advanced stages, weakens the bone and tissues that support your teeth. When a tooth becomes loose or unstable due to gum recession and bone loss, extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage to your oral structures and surrounding teeth.

4. Tooth Damage Beyond Repair

Sometimes, trauma from an accident or injury can cause irreparable damage to a tooth. If restorative treatments like crowns or fillings can’t save the natural tooth, an extraction may be the only viable option.

5. Impaction or Overcrowding

If your teeth are impacted (trapped below the gumline) or overcrowded, they can cause discomfort, misalignment, and bite issues. Wisdom teeth are a common culprit when it comes to impaction. Removing problem teeth in these cases creates space for healthier alignment and prevents future complications.

Why Choose Tooth Extraction at Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL?

At Your Time Dental, Dr. Rick Kernagis and our team understand that the idea of having a tooth pulled can feel overwhelming or intimidating. That’s why we prioritize patient comfort and education every step of the way. We believe in exploring all restorative options before recommending a tooth extraction, ensuring it’s always the last resort.

Dealing with tooth pain, swelling, or potential dental emergencies? Don’t wait. We offer emergency and urgent care dental services to residents of Gibsonton, Apollo Beach, Ruskin, Lithia, and FishHawk. If you’re experiencing one of the signs above, scheduling a consultation with us can give clarity and relief.

Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

Tooth extractions, when necessary, play a vital role in preserving your overall dental health. If you suspect you’re experiencing one of the signs listed above, don’t hesitate to contact Your Time Dental in Gibsonton. Together, we’ll determine the best course of action to protect your smile. Call us today to book an appointment with Dr. Rick Kernagis!

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

May9

Why Access to Urgent and Weekend Dental Care Matters in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Emergency, Urgent Dental Care

Dental needs don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Whether it’s a weekend toothache or an unexpected dental emergency, finding care when you need it can be a challenge. For residents of Gibsonton, FL, and the greater South Tampa area, Your Time Dental offers a solution that prioritizes both your time and your health.

The Importance of Urgent and Weekend Dental Care

Imagine waking up on a Saturday morning with a sudden, throbbing toothache. Perhaps your child chips a tooth while playing outside on a Friday evening. Scenarios like these highlight why access to urgent and weekend dental care is so vital. Left untreated, dental issues can worsen quickly, escalating minor discomfort into severe pain or long-term complications.

For many families in Gibsonton, traditional dental office hours don’t fit into busy schedules. Between juggling work, school pickups, and extracurricular activities, it’s not always possible to take time off during the week for a dental appointment. That’s where a practice like Your Time Dental becomes invaluable.

Your Time Dental: Care When You Need It

At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, our name says it all. We believe dental care should revolve around your time and your needs—not the other way around. Unlike traditional dental offices, we offer both weekend hours and walk-in appointments. This means you won’t have to wait until Monday or schedule days in advance if you’re facing discomfort or an emergency.

Led by Dr. Rick Kernagis, our practice takes pride in offering South Tampa residents flexible, expert care when they need it most. With services designed to alleviate pain and stress, our team is committed to creating a comforting and approachable environment. Whether it’s a cracked tooth, gum pain, or an unexpected dental issue, our priority is to help residents return to their daily routines as quickly as possible.

Supporting Gibsonton Families

Dental emergencies are not only physically uncomfortable, but they can also be emotionally and financially stressful. Being unable to find help on short notice can add unnecessary anxiety during an already painful experience. That’s why our team works hard to ensure that Gibsonton and South Tampa families feel supported with options tailored to their schedules.

Our Saturday appointments and walk-in availability make it simple to prioritize your dental health without disrupting other aspects of your life. Whether you need last-minute relief or a check-up at a more convenient time, Your Time Dental is here for you.

Prioritize Your Comfort and Health

When dental emergencies strike, timely care can make all the difference in avoiding complications and preserving your smile. At Your Time Dental, we’re committed to being there when you need us. Our flexible office hours and patient-focused approach reflect our mission to build a healthier, stress-free community in Gibsonton and beyond.

Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable or the issue worsens. If you’re experiencing discomfort or need dental care outside of traditional hours, give Your Time Dental a call or walk through our doors. Your time matters, and so does 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

Apr4

Urgent Tooth Removal Services for Pain Relief in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Emergency, Tooth Extraction, Urgent Dental Care

closeup of a woman who had a tooth extracted from her lower mouthTooth pain is among the most uncomfortable experiences, and in some cases, it can escalate to the point where immediate action is required. For residents of Gibsonton, FL, and the greater South Tampa area, emergency tooth removal may be the solution to finding fast relief and protecting your dental health. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, Dr. Rick Kernagis and his team are dedicated to offering efficient and convenient care when you need it most.

When is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

While every effort is typically made to save a compromised tooth with restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canals, there are cases when saving the tooth is not possible. This is where emergency tooth removal plays a critical role in alleviating pain and preventing further damage. Here are some of the most common reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary:

  • Severe Tooth Decay: When decay has penetrated deep into the tooth and there’s not enough healthy structure left to support restoration, extraction becomes the most effective solution.
  • Broken or Cracked Tooth: If a tooth is fractured beyond repair, especially in emergencies, removing it may be the best course of action to relieve pain and prevent infection.
  • Impacted Tooth: Wisdom teeth or other impacted teeth can cause significant discomfort and pose a risk to surrounding teeth and gums.
  • Advanced Gum Disease: If gum disease has severely affected the bone and tissue supporting the tooth, extraction may be necessary to preserve overall oral health.
  • Severe Infection: When infection has spread to the pulp and cannot be treated with antibiotics or a root canal, removing the tooth can prevent the condition from worsening.

Pain Relief and Protection

One of the primary benefits of emergency tooth removal is immediate pain relief. A severely damaged or infected tooth can keep you in constant discomfort, making it difficult to eat, sleep, or go about your daily routine. By addressing the problem promptly, extractions not only reduce pain significantly but also help protect your surrounding teeth, gums, and jawbone from further damage or infection.

Convenient Emergency Dental Services in Gibsonton, FL

At Your Time Dental, we understand that dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule and can arise at the most inconvenient times. That’s why we’ve designed our practice to suit your needs:

  • Open All Weekend, Including Sundays: Get access to care when most other dental offices are closed.
  • Extended Hours on Fridays: Accommodate your busy schedule without sacrificing your dental health.
  • Flexible Appointments: Whether it’s a sudden toothache or a dental injury, we’re here to help when you need us most.

Dr. Rick Kernagis and our caring team are committed to making dentistry as convenient and pain-free as possible so you can prioritize your health without the added stress of rigid scheduling.

Find the Relief You Need

If you’re dealing with severe tooth pain or believe you may need emergency tooth removal, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, today to schedule your visit. Our team is ready to provide the care you need to get you out of pain and back to smiling confidently.

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

Jan10

How Urgent Dental Care Can Save Your Chipped Tooth

Categories: Dental Emergency, Emergency Dentist, Restorative Dentistry

man in a purple shirt suffering from jaw pain holding up a piece of a chipped tooth in his right handA 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

Nov29

Modern Dentistry In Gibsonton

Categories: Dental Health, Emergency Dentist, General Dentistry

tooth brush with white toothpaste

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

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

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-519-0128

Sep27

5 Critical Oral Cancer Facts

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

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

Dental Checkups Are Not Just About Cavities

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

Oral Cancers Don’t Get as Much Attention

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

Early Diagnosis is Critical

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

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

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

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

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

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

An oral cancer check is easy!

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

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

HPV / Oral Cancer Facts


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

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

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

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

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

Sep20

Your Gibsonton Dentist Does a Lot More Than Fill Cavities

Categories: Dental Health, Restorative Dentistry

Bad Breath Treatment Tampa

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

Dry mouth treatment

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

Bad breath treatment

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

Jaw issues

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

Treatment for snoring

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

Oral cancer checks

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

Teeth grinding treatment

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

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

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

 

Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:

LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON

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

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

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

May24

Signs Of Oral Cancer: What Not To Ignore

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

oral cancer signs Gibsonton

Today’s message from Your Time Dental focuses on a very serious topic—oral (oropharyngeal) cancers. The medical community distinguishes oral cancers as a subset of head and neck cancers.

Oral cancers can develop in the following locations:

  • The tongue
  • The roof of the mouth and under the tongue
  • The inside of the cheeks
  • The oropharynx (the part behind the soft palate)
  • The salivary glands
  • The lips

Oral Cancers Are Particularly Deadly

Over 50,000 men and women annually are diagnosed with a type of oral cancer. They are more than twice as prevalent in men. There is no disparity when it comes to blacks or whites. Oral cancers claim over 10,000 victims per year.

The statistics reveal that only 57 percent of those diagnosed this year will be alive in five years. Talk about a grim outlook.

Let’s address the common—and the not-so-common—warning signs of oral cancer.

Any sore or lump in the mouth or throat should be taken seriously. Any white or red patch could also be a symptom.

Receiving an oral cancer screening is another reason to visit Your Time Dental Urgent Care twice a year for an exam. Healthcare providers who don’t have the specific training for early onset oral cancer may confuse or fail to recognize early indications.

Here, at Your Time Dental Urgent Care, Dr. Kernagis can tell you if you should be worried or not.

The Cold Sore Connection

Firstly, we know cold sores are not dinner-talk for most individuals. However, did you know that if you have a history of cold sores, you are at an increased risk of receiving oropharyngeal (oral) cancer?

Don’t Ignore These Signs!

You will want to get checked out if you:

  1. Have a lump or thickening in your throat
  2. Have white or red patches on your tongue, tonsils, or lining of your cheeks and gums
  3. Notice numbness of any oral feature
  4. Have any type of lesion, cut, or canker-type sore that doesn’t heal within 14 days

Less common symptoms include tongue pain and loose teeth. A hoarse voice that doesn’t go away should be a concern. Unexplained tooth discoloration is rare but not unheard of.

It’s a misconception to think any of these signs can’t lead to problems.

Early Diagnosis Can Save Your Life

Getting checked for oral (or any) cancer regularly is indispensable for multiple reasons, but it is ultimately necessary because you want to catch it early. So you have the highest chance of survival. While it typically does not start to show symptoms until around age 40, it occurs in younger patients as well.

Smokeless Tobacco

It is also more widespread for those who use smokeless, (chewing or spit) tobacco to get oral cancer. Many individuals argue that these are safer than smoking conventional cigarettes. This may be true when it comes to lung cancer. But you need to think about the of contracting other problems like oral cancer(s), pancreatic cancer, and/or chronic infections that can lead to heart issues later on.

Also, don’t assume vaping is less harmful. Though there is less research on the health risks of vaping, it certainly hasn’t been proven to be risk-free.

Smoking + Alcohol = A Dangerous Combination

While we are referring to tobacco and vaping, we also need to mention alcohol. For many men and women, they go together. Those who both smoke and drink have a 15 times greater chance of developing oral cancer than those who do neither.

Exposure to UV Rays Increases Risk of Lip Cancer

Lip cancer can be considered both an oral cancer and a skin cancer. Most of us have been warned that unprotected sun exposure is detrimental. But many of us forget about the lips when applying sunscreen. Pick up some SPF balm when you buy sunscreen. Don’t forget that eating, drinking and licking your lips can wipe it away. Reapply often. Wear wide-brim hats as protection. Be especially careful between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Sources:

https://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/key-statistics.htm

 

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

Mar22

Unmasking the Threat of Gum Disease and At-Risk Individuals in Tampa

Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Unmasking the Threat of Gum Disease and At-Risk Individuals in Tampa

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a stealthy adversary that can creep into our mouths with little warning.

For some individuals, the risk of developing gum disease is significantly higher due to various factors. Your Time Dental Urgent Care, located near Tampa, is dedicated to shedding light on the importance of understanding gum disease risk factors and providing tailored care for those who need it most.

The Hidden Menace: Gum Disease

Gum disease is a progressive condition that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gums and bone. It typically begins with gingivitis, which can manifest as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and impact overall health.

At-Risk Individuals: Who is Vulnerable?

Smokers: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. It weakens the immune system and reduces blood flow to the gums, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

Diabetics: Diabetes can compromise the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, making those with the condition more susceptible to infections, including gum disease.

Hormonal Changes: Women experiencing hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, may be at increased risk of gum disease due to hormonal fluctuations that affect gum health.

Family History: A genetic predisposition to gum disease can make individuals more vulnerable, as it can affect the body’s immune response to oral bacteria.

Medications: Certain medications, such as antihypertensive drugs and antipsychotics, can lead to dry mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing the risk of gum disease.

Stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fend off infections, including those in the gums.

Prevention and Care at Your Time Dental Urgent Care

At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we are committed to treating gum disease and educating our patients about their risk factors and how to prevent its onset. Our approach is tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.

Comprehensive Assessments: Our team conducts thorough oral examinations to assess the health of your gums and identify any signs of gum disease.

Personalized Treatment Plans: If gum disease is detected, we create customized treatment plans that may include scaling and root planing, laser therapy, or other appropriate interventions.

Education and Prevention: We empower our patients with knowledge about proper oral hygiene practices and lifestyle changes that can reduce their risk of gum disease.

Regular Check-Ups: Routine dental check-ups are essential for early detection and prevention of gum disease. We recommend regular visits to monitor your oral health.

Gum disease can be a silent threat, especially for at-risk individuals. Understanding the risk factors and seeking timely care is crucial to maintaining not only a healthy smile but also overall well-being. At Your Time Dental Urgent Care, we support you in your journey to gum health. Don’t let gum disease remain hidden; take proactive steps to protect your oral and overall health.

Schedule an appointment with us today and let us be your partners in a lifetime of healthy 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

Mar15

Can You Name 9 Dental Specialties in the Gibsonton Area?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, General Dentistry

Lithia Pediatric and Cosmetic Dentistry

Most Gibsonton area residents probably know how a pediatric dentist differs from an orthodontist. Some Fish Hawk dental patients may even know the unique focus of endodontists. However, few Florida residents probably know that the American Dental Association recognizes nine dental specialties. Today’s post from Your Time Dental looks at the specific disciplines within the fascinating world of dentistry and the years in which they were formally recognized by the ADA. (If you want a challenge, see if you can name all nine before you continue reading this post.)

Endodontics (1983): This area focuses on “the morphology, physiology, and pathology of the human dental pulp.”1 If you need a root canal in Gibsonton, you may require the services of an endodontist.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (2003): If you want to straighten your teeth, you need an orthodontist. Dentofacial orthopedic specialists correct facial deformities using many of the same types of appliances used in teeth straightening therapy.

Pediatric Dentistry (1995): Lithia pediatric dentists provide dental care for infants, children, and teenagers.

Periodontics (1992): “Periodontics is that specialty of dentistry which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes.”1 Periodontal specialists perform crown lengthening, pocket reduction, and soft tissue (gum) grafts.

Prosthodontics (2003): Prosthodontists provide restorative dental procedures including dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures. They also perform cosmetic dental treatments including porcelain veneers, crowns, dental bonding, invisible fillings, and teeth bleaching.

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology (1991): This specialty concerns “the nature, identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. It is a science that investigates the causes, processes, and effects of these diseases. The practice of oral pathology includes research and diagnosis of diseases using clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical, or other examinations.”1

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (2001): Oral and maxillofacial radiologists analyze radiographic images (x-rays) for issues of the maxillofacial area.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (1990): Oral surgeons perform surgery on the teeth, jaw, face, and gums. These include facial reconstruction, cleft lip and palate correction, bone grafting, dental implants, and impacted teeth.

Dental Public Health (1976): This discipline focuses on “preventing and controlling dental diseases and promoting dental health through organized community efforts.”1

General and cosmetic dentists in the Gibsonton area are trained in a wide variety of dental procedures. However, sometimes your Tampa general dentist will refer you to a local Tampa specialist, or include a specialist as part of your treatment team.

1Specialty Definitions, The American Dental Association, http://www.ada.org/495.aspx, accessed May 22, 2013

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