expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. James Eric Hibbs, DDS

Dentist

Dr. James Hibbs is a Dentist practicing in Dallas, TX. Dr. Hibbs specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. James Eric Hibbs, DDS
  • Dallas, TX
  • Accepting new patients

Can a small crack in my tooth heal on its own?

No, a crack in a tooth will not heal itself.

How long does a bridge last?

While, depending on a variety of factors, a bridge could last a lifetime, statistically, you can expect a bridge to last between ten and twenty years. 

What happens when abscess ruptures?

The tooth still needs to be treated or extracted. It typically will not heal on its own.

What should I do if my filling is loose?

I would suggest returning to the dentist to have it checked.

My son is sucking his thumb with adult teeth. What can happen?

Thumb sucking with permanent teeth can cause the permanent teeth to move out of normal position and may eventually require orthodontics treatment to correct.

Can dentists treat sleep apnea?

Yes, dentists treat sleep apnea with appliances worn in the mouth.

I have really bad breath, even though I brush and floss. What could be causing it?

There are many possible causes for this condition. Some of them are: tonsil stones (small whitish clumps caught in the folds of your tonsils), post-nasal drip due to sinus issues, READ MORE
There are many possible causes for this condition. Some of them are: tonsil stones (small whitish clumps caught in the folds of your tonsils), post-nasal drip due to sinus issues, stomach acid reaching your mouth via vomiting or acid reflux, needing a professional dental exam and cleaning. Good luck in your quest for fresh breath. I hope this helps!

Is it okay to swallow the gel applied for a mouth ulcer?

If the gel is indicated for use topically on ulcers inside your mouth, it should be safe to accidentally swallow a small amount.

Why are my 5 year old son's teeth rotting?

Many things can cause rapid decay. Some of them are: dry mouth/mouth breathing, sweet liquids at bedtime, inadequate oral hygiene, and lack of fluoride in water as a baby. Even READ MORE
Many things can cause rapid decay. Some of them are: dry mouth/mouth breathing, sweet liquids at bedtime, inadequate oral hygiene, and lack of fluoride in water as a baby. Even though the baby teeth will be replaced, they still play a major role in setting up the mouth for a healthy, uncrowded permanent dentition, so they should be maintained carefully and checked by a dentist yearly.

I don't understand how I got Periodontal disease

There can be a genetic factor to gum disease, though it is not absolute. You did not mention how often you get your teeth checked and professionally cleaned. This can play a major READ MORE
There can be a genetic factor to gum disease, though it is not absolute. You did not mention how often you get your teeth checked and professionally cleaned. This can play a major role in preventing gum disease.

The dentist has recommended my son’s tooth extraction. Is it the right way to go?

Sometimes you can restore the teeth with fillings of "caps," but if the decay has gotten too deep, the teeth can become abscessed (usually noticeable by a small pimple at the gums READ MORE
Sometimes you can restore the teeth with fillings of "caps," but if the decay has gotten too deep, the teeth can become abscessed (usually noticeable by a small pimple at the gums by the tooth), in which case, the baby tooth should be extracted.

Can tooth sensitivity be cured by changing toothpaste?

A sensitivity-focused toothpaste such as Sensodyne can help to resolve tooth sensitivity. Also, look to find the source of sensitivity, which is usually related to exposed root READ MORE
A sensitivity-focused toothpaste such as Sensodyne can help to resolve tooth sensitivity. Also, look to find the source of sensitivity, which is usually related to exposed root surfaces or tooth cracks combined with consuming citric foods and beverages.

How many times should I floss?

I recommend flossing 2-3 times a day optimally(after each meal), and at a minimum, once a day at bedtime.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket occurs when the blood clot in the tooth socket either does not form properly, washes away, or is somehow dislodged out of the socket. This results in exposed bone, READ MORE
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot in the tooth socket either does not form properly, washes away, or is somehow dislodged out of the socket. This results in exposed bone, which can be very painful until enough healing has occurred (about 10 days) to cover the exposed bone. To alleviate the pain, a dentist typically rinses the socket gently and then places a soothing medicament, either by itself, or on a piece of sterile gauze that is later removed.

I can't fix my teeth sensitivity. What do I do?

There are several ways to reduce tooth sensitivity, depending on the cause. Root canals can work in severe cases, though typically more conservative treatments would work and are READ MORE
There are several ways to reduce tooth sensitivity, depending on the cause. Root canals can work in severe cases, though typically more conservative treatments would work and are worth trying first. If you have teeth whitening trays, a relief gel is available at a dentist to use in the trays. Dentists also typically have desensitizing liquids they can place on the sensitive roots of the teeth. Also, a thin layer of tooth colored composite filled material can be bonded over the sensitive areas. I hope this helps!