Emergency Dentist Gibsonton

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

Aug8

Conquering Dental Anxiety with Sedation Dentistry at Your Time Dental

Categories: Emergency Dentist, Urgent Dental Care

Facing an urgent dental situation is never easy—especially if you struggle with dental anxiety. The mere thought of visiting a dentist can trigger unease, but what if this anxiety is preventing you from getting the care you urgently need? Thankfully, sedation dentistry offers a safe, effective, and comforting solution. For residents of Gibsonton, FL, and the South Tampa area, Your Time Dental, led by Dr. Rick Kernagis, provides expert sedation options to help you overcome fear, even during emergency dental visits.

Understanding Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s not just about physical comfort but also addressing the mental and emotional hurdles that can keep individuals from seeking care. Whether your anxiety is mild or severe, sedation techniques can tailor-fit your needs to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

At Your Time Dental, options vary to match your comfort level. These can range from mild nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas) to oral sedatives, or even IV sedation for deeper relaxation. This personalized approach ensures you feel secure no matter the complexity of your dental procedure.

Why Sedation Is a Game-Changer

Dental anxiety and fear can stem from many causes—previous traumatic experiences, fear of pain, or even a dislike of needles. For some, the sound of a drill or the antiseptic smell of a dental office is enough to trigger dread. Without addressing this anxiety, an individual might delay an urgent treatment, which can lead to worsening conditions and greater health risks.

Sedation dentistry eliminates these barriers. By calming your nerves, it allows you to focus on getting care rather than battling the tension. For those experiencing emergency dental issues, such as severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, or an infection, sedation becomes even more critical. It enables your dentist to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently while ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.

Tailored Care for Every Patient

Here at Your Time Dental, Dr. Rick Kernagis and his compassionate team understand how intimidating a dental visit can feel—especially in a time of crisis. That’s why they offer several sedation techniques to help all patients feel at ease. Whether you have a moderate fear of routine cleanings or experience intense anxiety at the thought of any dental treatment, there’s a sedation option that meets your needs.

For some patients, nitrous oxide’s gentle calming effect may be enough, allowing you to stay awake but completely relaxed. Others may benefit from oral conscious sedation, where a prescribed medication helps you achieve a heightened state of ease. For severe cases or more intricate treatments, IV sedation provides deeper relaxation, ensuring you feel nothing but calm from start to finish.

Why Choose Sedation Dentistry for Emergencies?

Urgent dental situations demand prompt attention, but anxiety can make even the shortest delay dangerous. Sedation dentistry is an invaluable tool for ensuring care isn’t postponed during emergencies. You’ll be able to stay calm while Dr. Kernagis and his team address your concerns—whether it’s a tooth that needs extraction, an abscess that must be drained, or another pressing issue.

A Fear-Free Dental Experience

No matter how extreme—or mild—your dental fear might be, sedation dentistry offers the chance to take back control of your oral health. At Your Time Dental, the team embraces patient comfort and understands the unique struggles of anxious individuals, especially during emergencies.

Don’t let fear prevent you from getting the care you need. Contact Dr. Rick Kernagis and the team at Your Time Dental to explore sedation dentistry and discover how it can transform your next dental experience into one of calm confidence.

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