Restorative Dentistry

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

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

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

Apr26

The Advantages of Implant-Retained Dentures

Categories: Dental Health, Restorative Dentistry

implant dentures Gibsonton

Are you trading your traditional dentures for implant-stabilized dentures?

Implant-retained or implant-stabilized dentures both provide several advantages over standard dentures. At Your Time Dental, we offer lasting restorative dental services.

Secure in the mouth—no slipping

Offers up to 100% natural chewing function

The upper denture doesn’t cover as much of the palate

This helps wearers taste food more easily. (Hooray!)

More comfortable

When dentures are fixed in place, they don’t slip around, allowing the wearer to feel more self-assured in social or professional situations.

Little or no gum irritation

Mouth sores lower the quality of life and can make eating painful.

Doesn’t reduce speaking power

Denture wearers know how frustrating it is to not be able to speak effectively. With implant-stabilized dentures, you can regain the ease of talking and laughing.

Stronger

Implant-retained dentures are durable and long-lasting.

Prevents bone loss

When bone recedes, you can get that “sunken face” look. Nothing ages a person more than hollowed-out cheeks.

Allows wearer to eat any type of food

Has it been a while since you’ve taken a bite of a juicy steak or crisp, red apple? It’s time to experience your favorite foods again!

No adhesive required

You won’t miss gluing your dentures into your mouth.

What Are The Differences Between Fixed and Removable?

Fixed implant-retained dentures (sometimes called screw-in) require more implants than the removable type. However, they can restore 100% chewing power.

Removable implant dentures (sometimes called snap-in) may require just 4 implants to stabilize the upper arch and just 2 for the lower denture. Removable implant-stabilized dentures can restore up to 90% of chewing ability.

Should I get removable or fixed implant-anchored dentures?

The following factors will influence your determination.

Bone Health

Implants require the patient to have a sufficient amount of healthy bone structure for placement. The condition of your jawbone impacts whether it can support implants and where the posts can be inserted.

Price

Fixed implant dentures cost more but some men and women believe the merits outweigh the extra expense.

Convenience

Fixed implant-stabilized dentures don’t have to be taken out for cleaning. Patients who have found it inconvenient to clean standard dentures would face the same issue with removable implant-retained dentures.

Preferred Foods

Fixed dentures are sturdier than removable dentures. Patients who favor foods that are harder to chew should consider this.

Sleep Conditions

People with TMJ or sleep apnea may find it more onerous to manage these conditions if they have to remove their dentures at night.

Now, denture wearers have an amazing new tooth replacement option.

 

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

Feb16

Are You Watching For Cavities?

Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

prevent cavities Gibsonton

Did you know a cavity may be reversed? These small holes in our teeth caused by acidic tooth erosion can be prevented from getting worse and require filling. Currently, around 90% of adults have cavities and almost 30% have untreated cavities. However, by taking a few required precautions advised by Your Time Dental, we can stave off tooth decay.

What causes a cavity?

Every time we eat or drink, plaque bacteria break down sugar which leads to the release of certain acids in our mouths. This acidic solution will slowly wear away the enamel on our teeth and eventually lead to a cavity. The more sugar we consume the more likely we are to get cavities since there is more of this solution in our mouths.

Can I prevent cavities from getting worse?

Yes! It’s possible to prohibit cavities from getting worse. We can all lower the number of cavities that form if we’re aware of the early signs of formation. If you ever observe small white dots on your teeth, it’s time to up the amount of time you spend brushing and flossing. You can reverse the cavity at this stage since the fluoride will re-mineralize the surface of your enamel. If you neglect your oral care, however, tooth decay will persist and result in a tiny hole. The cavity is no longer reversible and you may need a filling soon. If you continue to ignore the cavities at this stage, the hole might progress through the enamel and reach the softer layer of yellow dentin beneath and require a root canal.

4 Ways to Prevent Cavities From Forming

Avoid Refined Sugar

This one is probably obvious, but avoiding sugar should be your number one purpose in preventing cavities. Sugar breaks down our enamel and only weakens our teeth more and more when the enamel has completely worn away. Reducing the amount of sugar we take in will also provide a healthier lifestyle and make us feel better overall. We may give in to our favorite sugary drink at times, but our teeth will thank us later if we minimize these temptations.

Xylitol mints

Xylitol is a type of alcohol that comes in the form of mints or gum. This unique breath freshener not only tastes good but also cleans the inside of your mouth. By using just one mint after eating and drinking, studies show you can reduce your chance of cavities by 53%. However, you don’t have to stock up on gum and mints to prohibit cavities, and usually, brushing is the most effective measure.

Brushing

Remember that routinely brushing and flossing not only keeps your breath fresh but also prohibits cavities from forming and worsening. The fluoride will re-mineralize your teeth and also harden the enamel. This helps the enamel stay strong and makes it harder for cavities to form. If you ever see a cavity forming, focus on brushing this tooth with extra focus to clean away the bacteria. Cavities will hold bacteria longer since they let food sink deeper into the tooth.

Salt Water Rinses

Occasionally, rinsing your mouth with salt water can help slow the expansion of a cavity. Saltwater has antiseptic properties that kill bacteria on our teeth leaving them cleaner and better safeguarded. Try adding this to your oral health routine after brushing and flossing.

Going Forward

Always keep an eye out for cavities forming and stay disciplined in scheduling your semi-annual dentist appointments. Anytime you observe tooth decay appearing, use some of the techniques mentioned, but seek help if you experience any pain. This could be a sign the cavity has worked its way beyond the layer of dentin and reached the pulp where our nerves reside. If this transpires, your dentist will need to perform a root canal or possibly extract the tooth entirely. Never let a cavity advance to this stage and always maintain a healthy mouth. Keep on brushing and flossing routinely, but if you notice small white spots forming on your teeth, stay on alert to slow the onset of a cavity.

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: 813-710-9789

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

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

Jan26

CEREC and E4D One Visit Dental Crowns

Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, Restorative Dentistry

same day dental crowns Gibsonton

If you’re like most individuals in Gibsonton, you appreciate convenience in every aspect of life. In other words, straightforward processes with minimal disruption to your schedule.

Multiple Appointments Can Be a Hassle

When it comes to medical or dental services, convenience means the fewest visits possible. Our team aims to make that happen.

Let’s discuss dental crowns, for example. Most men and women need a restoration like a dental crown at some point in their life. A dental crown is one of the most versatile dental restorations. It covers the complete visible portion of a tooth and can correct a damaged tooth, a tooth with a large cavity, or a tooth that has undergone a root canal. This protects what’s left of the tooth and allows normal function

Dental Crowns Used to Take at Least Two Appointments

The traditional dental crown procedure involves at least two visits. (Sometimes three or four depending on the situation.) On the first visit, the dentist would prepare the tooth and create an impression for the crown. To make impressions, the patient had to bite into a U-shaped tray filled with a thick, gooey substance (alginate or polyvinylsiloxane).

Then the dentist would send the impression to a dental lab to have the crown constructed. This could take a couple of weeks. When the crown was finished, the patient would have to come back to the dental practice to have it placed and cemented.

CEREC and E4D Same Day Crowns

Now, there are two visit systems. The brand names are CEREC and E4D. Both systems use CAD (Computer Aided Design) and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) to design and engineer a perfectly fitting crown.

CAD uses 3-D software that photographs teeth to create a precise model. In some dental practices, the patient can see the 3-D digital models on a screen during their visit.

CEREC uses an infrared camera to transmit the tooth’s exact shape to the CAD software. E4D accomplishes the same thing with laser technology. As mentioned previously, CAD is the modeling software. Once there is a precise 3-D rendering, it’s time to create the restoration. That is what the CAM machine does. CAM is the milling process, in which a small bit-like device operates at extremely high speeds to precisely chisel a custom-fitting crown out of a block of ceramic.

Steps For a One-Visit Dental Crown

Here is a recap of the entire process:

  1. Tooth Preparation. Your dentist will prepare the site for your crown by clearing away cavities or portions of the damaged tooth.
  2. Intraoral Scanning. Next, your dental professional will use an optical scanner to create a 3-D digital model of the damaged tooth and surrounding teeth.
  3. Restoration Design. With the 3-D images, the dentist will use CAD software to design the final restoration.
  4. Milling. A milling machine uses a 3-D scan and precisely chisels the crown from a single small brick of ceramic.
  5. Sintering and Polishing. The dentist then stains or glazes to make the surface of the dental crown look like a natural tooth. Following that, the dentist polishes the restoration to perfection.
  6. Cementation. Finally, the restoration is permanently affixed to your mouth.

Need a dental crown? Call us today to request an appointment.

 

Jan19

No Dental Insurance? Prioritize Spending For Dental Care

Categories: Dental Emergency, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

dental financing Gibsonton

Millions of Americans don’t have dental insurance, and many Florida employer plans have limited benefits. Some men and women who fail to get adequate dental care say “It’s too costly.”

This excuse may be valid if you live below the poverty level. But if you have an average income, you can probably shift your priorities to find money in your budget to invest in a healthy smile.

You have probably heard of the “Latte Factor” which refers to the surprising amount of dollars that adds up if you buy a significant caffeinated beverage every morning. Even if you don’t drink coffee, you probably have a personal habit that costs a few dollars daily but adds up to hundreds of dollars a year. Soda pop, beer, an eight-dollar deli sandwich, and a game of golf. How about personal grooming—manis, pedis, facials, and professional hair coloring? What about the dollars you spend for convenience—pizza delivery, ATM fees, heat-and-eat meals? How much do you spend on premium cable, video game rentals, full-price movies, and season tickets to sporting events?

If you have foregone dental exams, cleanings, and treatments because you think it’s too costly, I hope this Your Time Dental Urgent Care blog post has opened your eyes to purchases that may be far less vital than a healthy smile. Remember, if you ignore dental problems, eventually they will require more extensive treatments. Filling a cavity is relatively inexpensive, a root canal costs more, and a dental implant is a major investment. What is a tooth worth? Every single one is priceless. And don’t forget that dental dilemmas impact the health of your entire body.

Your Time Dental Urgent Care in Gibsonton provides competitively priced first-rate dental care including veneers, crowns, bonding, orthodontia, and teeth whitening. We also provide same-day emergency care. Ask us about dental financing options.

 

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: 813-710-9789

FISHHAWK – LITHIA

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