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

Mar21

Veneers vs. Other Cosmetic Dental Options: Which One Is Best for You in Gibsonton, FL?

Categories: Bonding, Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers

middle aged couple with their arms around each other, smiling and showing off their cosmetic treatmentsFor many residents of Gibsonton, FL, enhancing their smile is a priority. Whether it’s to boost self-confidence, address cosmetic imperfections, or feel better about your overall appearance, there are several cosmetic dental options available to help you achieve your dream smile. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, Dr. Rick Kernagis offers state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers. But how do you choose the best solution? Understanding the differences between these treatments can help you make an informed decision.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are ultra-thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin that are carefully crafted and bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They are typically used to correct issues such as:

  • Discolored or stained teeth
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Slightly misaligned or uneven teeth

Veneers are durable, natural-looking, and designed to transform your smile while maintaining a healthy, natural aesthetic.

Why Veneers Might Be Right for You

Choosing veneers at Your Time Dental means more than just a cosmetic improvement—they offer a long-lasting and minimally invasive solution for a perfect smile. Veneers provide a variety of benefits, including:

  • Customizable Results: Crafted to match the color, size, and shape of your teeth.
  • Durability: Porcelain veneers, in particular, are resistant to stains and built to last for many years with proper care.
  • Natural Appearance: Veneers blend seamlessly with your smile, offering a polished, natural look.

Whether you’re attending an event in the nearby South Tampa area or just strolling through Gibsonton neighborhoods, veneers can help you smile with confidence.

Veneers vs. Bonding

While both veneers and bonding can address cosmetic issues like chips, cracks, and discoloration, they differ in materials and durability.

  • Bonding: This involves using a tooth-colored resin applied directly to your tooth. It’s a quicker, more cost-effective option but is less durable and can stain over time.
  • Veneers: A more polished and stain-resistant solution, veneers are ideal for those looking for a longer-lasting and more natural-looking finish.

If you’re young or want a quick fix to a minor imperfection, bonding could be a reasonable choice. However, for a more transformational change, veneers are worth investing in.

Veneers vs. Crowns

Both veneers and crowns can enhance the appearance of your teeth, but they serve different purposes.

  • Crowns: Typically used for teeth that are severely damaged or weakened, crowns cover the entire tooth to add strength and functionality.
  • Veneers: Designed for cosmetic improvements, veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth.

If your primary goal is to restore a heavily decayed or damaged tooth, crowns may be the better option. On the other hand, if your concern is purely aesthetic, veneers are ideal.

Why Choose Dr. Rick Kernagis at Your Time Dental?

At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, Dr. Rick Kernagis understands that each patient’s smile is unique. He specializes in providing affordable and personalized cosmetic dental treatments, ensuring exceptional results. Whether you’re exploring veneers, bonding, crowns, or other options, Dr. Kernagis will guide you through the decision-making process with care and expertise.

Don’t wait to enhance your smile! Call Your Time Dental to schedule a consultation today and discover the best cosmetic dental option for you. Whether you’re from Gibsonton or the South Tampa area, your dream smile is closer than you think!

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

Mar7

Does Your Tooth Injury in the South Tampa Area Require Immediate Attention?

Categories: Emergency Dentist, Urgent Dental Care

young woman suffering from severe tooth pain, possible dental emergency Tooth injuries can happen unexpectedly, and knowing when to seek immediate care is crucial for protecting your oral health. Whether it’s a sharp pain, a troubling break, or the worst-case scenario of losing a tooth, understanding the seriousness of these issues is essential. Here’s a quick guide from Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL to help you determine if your tooth injury requires urgent attention.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

This is undoubtedly one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you or a loved one has a tooth completely knocked out, time is critical. Acting fast increases the chances of saving the tooth. Here’s what you should do:

  • Handle the tooth by the crown (top part), not the root.
  • Rinse it briefly with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub it.
  • Try to place the tooth back into its socket if possible. If not, store it in a container of milk or keep it in your cheek to stay moist.
  • Seek dental care immediately. The goal is to get to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of reattachment.

At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, we specialize in providing same-day care for emergencies like this. Dr. Rick Kernagis and our team are here to help save your smile with expert treatment.

2. Severe Toothache

At first glance, a toothache might not seem like an emergency, but severe or persistent pain can indicate a deeper problem. Causes of extreme tooth pain may include:

  • An abscess or infection
  • Dental decay reaching the tooth’s nerve
  • A compromised filling or crown

If you’re experiencing pain that doesn’t subside or worsens, it’s important to address it quickly. Dental infections, in particular, can spread and lead to severe health complications if left untreated.

Our urgent care specialists at Your Time Dental are available, even on weekends, to diagnose and treat severe dental pain. We understand how debilitating a toothache can be, and we’re ready to provide relief.

3. Cracked or Broken Tooth

A cracked or broken tooth can range from mild to severe in urgency depending on the extent of the damage:

  • Minor Cracks: May not require immediate attention but should still be evaluated for hidden damage.
  • Major Cracks or Breaks (exposing the inner pulp or causing sharp pain): Require urgent dental care to prevent further complications and sensitivity.

If you accidentally chip or break a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on that side until you can see a dentist.

Your Time Dental in the greater Tampa area offers walk-in appointments and extended Friday hours, so you never have to wait long to get help for your damaged tooth.

Get Emergency Dental Care in Gibsonton

Tooth injuries vary in severity, but when in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and speak to a dental professional. At Your Time Dental, we pride ourselves on being available when you need us most. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, extreme toothache, or a cracked tooth, Dr. Rick Kernagis and our dedicated team are here to provide the care you need.

Because dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, our office is open with extended hours and available for same-day appointments. Contact us immediately if you’re dealing with a dental emergency or have questions about your injury.

Call us today or walk right in for urgent dental 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

Feb21

Why Dental Implants Are Often the Best Solution for Tooth Replacement

Categories: dental implant, Restorative Dentistry

side by side of a bearded man, dental implant for missing toothWhen it comes to replacing a missing tooth, you want a solution that’s as close to having your natural tooth back as possible—something that feels, functions, and lasts just like the real thing. That’s where dental implants come in. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, under the expert care of Dr. Kernagis, we provide advanced dental implant technology for patients throughout Gibsonton, Apollo Beach, Riverview, and South Tampa. Learn why dental implants are often considered the gold standard for tooth replacement.

The Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer an unparalleled combination of functionality, durability, and aesthetics. Unlike dentures or bridges, which merely sit on or attach to other teeth, implants fuse with your jawbone, creating a solid and permanent foundation for your new tooth. Here’s why dental implants stand above other options:

1. Natural Look and Feel

Dental implants are designed to mimic the structure of natural teeth. They consist of a titanium post that acts as an artificial root, topped with a custom crown made to match your existing teeth. With implants, your smile looks flawless, and most people won’t even notice you’ve had a tooth replaced.

2. Preserves Bone Health

When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants help prevent bone loss by mimicking the pressure and stimulation a natural tooth root provides. This makes them the healthiest choice for your jaw.

3. Long-Lasting Solution

Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, which may need frequent repairs or replacements, implants are a long-term solution. With proper care and maintenance, they can last decades—or even a lifetime.

4. Improved Functionality

Dental implants restore full chewing power, enabling you to enjoy your favorite meals without hesitation. They’re stable, secure, and won’t slip or click the way dentures sometimes do.

5. No Impact on Surrounding Teeth

Unlike traditional bridges, implants don’t require adjacent teeth to be altered or shaved down. They stand independently, preserving the integrity of your natural teeth.

How Does the Tooth Implant Process Work?

At Your Time Dental, we make the implant process as smooth and efficient as possible for South Tampa and surrounding residents. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect when you choose dental implants with Dr. Kernagis:

  1. Consultation: Dr. Kernagis will evaluate your oral health and determine if you’re a good candidate for implants. This will include imaging, such as X-rays, to assess bone density and the health of your gums.
  2. Placement: A titanium implant post will be surgically placed into the jawbone. This acts as the base for your new tooth.
  3. Healing Process: Over the next few months, the implant will naturally fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a sturdy foundation.
  4. Crown Placement: Once healed, a custom-designed crown will be attached to the implant, completing your new smile. You’ll walk out with a tooth replacement that looks and works flawlessly.

We’re Here to Help

At Your Time Dental, we proudly help residents across Gibsonton, Apollo Beach, Riverview, and South Tampa take back their smiles with advanced dental implant technology. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or other reasons, dental implants offer a comfortable, natural, and lasting solution that restores both function and confidence.

Don’t settle for less when it comes to your oral health. Contact Dr. Kernagis and our team today to learn how dental implants can transform your smile. Your best smile starts here!

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

Feb7

How Sedation Dentistry Can Help You Conquer Your Fear of the Dentist in Gibsonton, FL

Categories: Dental Health, Emergency Dentist, Restorative Dentistry

anxious patient undergoing sedation dentistry to easy anxietyDoes the thought of sitting in a dental chair make your heart race? You’re far from alone. Many people experience dental anxiety or a fear of dentists that keeps them from seeking out vital dental care. The good news? Sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective solution that can eliminate your fears, ensuring you get the care you need for a healthy smile. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL (serving the communities of Apollo Beach and Riverview), we specialize in providing a calm and comfortable dental experience.

Understanding Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s specifically designed for people who experience anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, or require extensive dental work. At Your Time Dental, we offer several options tailored to meet the diverse needs of our patients:

  • Oral Conscious Sedation: This option involves taking a prescribed medication shortly before your appointment. You’ll remain awake but deeply relaxed throughout the procedure. Many patients feel as though time flies during their visit.
  • Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide): A mild form of sedation, laughing gas helps you relax in real-time, and its effects wear off quickly, meaning you can get back to your day immediately after.
  • IV Sedation: For those with severe dental anxiety, IV sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation while still allowing you to stay conscious. This type of sedation is administered by a trained professional to ensure your safety.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

If dental anxiety has kept you out of the dentist’s chair for years, sedation dentistry can be life-changing. Here’s how it helps:

1. Soothe Anxiety Instantly

With sedation, you’ll feel calm and relaxed within moments of treatment beginning (or even before, depending on the method you choose). Worries about the sound of drills or discomfort fade into the background, helping you focus on reclaiming your dental health.

2. Pain-Free Procedures

Many people avoid the dentist because they associate it with pain. Sedation dentistry eliminates pain and dulls sensitivity, making even invasive procedures feel completely manageable.

3. Longer Appointments Made Easy

If you need multiple treatments, you may feel overwhelmed by the thought of longer procedures. Sedation dentistry helps you feel comfortable, allowing your dentist to accomplish more in one visit. This reduces the total number of appointments needed.

4. Feel in Control

Sedation methods like oral conscious sedation and laughing gas keep you conscious but relaxed during treatment. You’ll be aware enough to communicate with your dentist if needed, which helps many patients feel more in control of the situation.

Why Choose Your Time Dental?

At Your Time Dental, we understand how real dental anxiety is—and we’re here to help. Whether you’re a resident of Gibsonton, Apollo Beach, or Riverview, our compassionate team is trained to meet your unique needs. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be treated with care and understanding, never judgment. We customize every sedation option to ensure you feel safe and supported during your visit.

Take the First Step Toward Fear-Free Dental Care

Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from enjoying a healthy, confident smile. At Your Time Dental, sedation dentistry is a game-changer for patients who’ve avoided the dentist for far too long. Call us today or book your appointment online to learn more about our sedation options and how we can help you conquer your fear of the dentist—once and for all.

Your Time Dental—where your comfort is 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

Jan24

Painless Root Canals? Modern Technology Makes It Possible in Gibsonton

Categories: Restorative Dentistry, Root Canal Treatment

image of a root canal being performed, drilling into pulp to treat infectionRoot canals have long been regarded as one of the most feared dental procedures, often associated with discomfort and pain. However, thanks to advancements in modern technology, this perception is rapidly changing. At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, Dr. Rick Kernagis and his expert team utilize cutting-edge techniques to ensure that root canal treatments are not only effective but also virtually painless.

Debunking the Root Canal Myth

For years, the words “root canal” evoked dread in dental patients. But the truth is, root canals are now no more uncomfortable than getting a simple dental filling. The entire procedure focuses on relieving pain caused by an infected or damaged tooth, and modern technology has revolutionized how this treatment is administered.

What Makes a Root Canal Painless Today?

1. Precise Diagnosis with Advanced Imaging

Before treatment even begins, precise imaging tools like 3D cone-beam CT allow dentists like Dr. Rick Kernagis to get a highly detailed view of your tooth’s roots. This eliminates any guesswork, ensuring the procedure targets the right area with pinpoint accuracy. Clear imaging helps minimize unnecessary steps and contributes to a seamless, pain-free process.

2. Gentle Local Anesthetics

Modern anesthetic techniques ensure that patients experience no pain during their root canal procedure. At Your Time Dental, Dr. Kernagis carefully administers local anesthesia that completely numbs the area, eliminating discomfort while keeping you alert and aware.

For patients with dental anxiety, sedation options are also available to help you feel more at ease.

3. High-Speed Rotary Instruments

The old days of manual root canal tools are long gone. Today, dentists use advanced rotary instruments equipped with flexible, nickel-titanium tips. These instruments clean the infected root canals more efficiently, meaning shorter treatment times and less irritation to surrounding tissues.

4. Laser-Assisted Treatment

Innovative laser technology is another reason root canals are now virtually painless. Lasers allow for precise removal of infected tissue without harming healthy structures. They also reduce bacteria inside the root canal, ensuring a more effective and quicker healing process.

5. Improved Filling Materials

Once the infected portion is cleaned, your tooth is filled and sealed with biocompatible materials that prevent further infection. These materials are designed for comfort and longevity, seamlessly restoring function to your tooth.

Why Choose Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL?

At Your Time Dental, we don’t just treat teeth—we care for people. Dr. Rick Kernagis believes in providing personalized care using the latest dental technology to ensure that every visit is comfortable and stress-free. Whether it’s a routine check-up or a root canal, you can trust us to deliver the highest level of care.

Our team is committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere where you feel heard and supported. We’ll walk you through each step of the process to alleviate any concerns and ensure you leave with a smile.

Say Goodbye to Fear and Hello to Relief

If you’ve been putting off a root canal because of fear or misconceptions about pain, it’s time to reconsider. Modern technology has transformed this once-dreaded procedure into a quick, effective, and virtually painless experience.

Contact Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL, to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rick Kernagis. Relief from dental pain is just a phone call away. Trust us to bring comfort and advanced care to your dental health needs.

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

Dec27

Suspect a Bite Problem?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

x-ray of a bite issue

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):

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

Dec20

Implants or Traditional Dentures? Ask Yourself These Questions When Choosing

Categories: dental implant, Restorative Dentistry

woman smiling on a park bench

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):

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

Dec13

Seeking A Relationship In the Gibsonton Area?

Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

two hands shaking 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):

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