expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Ronald Allan Hawkins, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Ronald Hawkins is a Dentist practicing in Lubbock, TX. Dr. Hawkins 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. Ronald Allan Hawkins, DDS
  • Lubbock, TX
  • Accepting new patients

Is mouthwash good for dental crowns?

Mouth wash is a good addition to regular brushing (2x/day) & Daily flossing. It’s not a substitute for either of the other 2.

Is it normal for a tooth filling to be sensitive?

Sometimes- yes. The deeper the decay was & the closer to the pulp/ nerve, the more likely there can be some sensitivity. In the deepest cavities dentists often place a base material READ MORE
Sometimes- yes. The deeper the decay was & the closer to the pulp/ nerve, the more likely there can be some sensitivity. In the deepest cavities dentists often place a base material to act as insulation against such sensitivity. In most cases, time usually takes care of it as the pulp of the tooth lays down more dentin inside the nerve chamber to further insulate the nerve. If it does not show improvement within a couple of weeks or if it gets worse- get it checked by your dentist. In rare cases, but occasionally, the nerve can be so damaged from the depth of the cavity that a root canal might be needed. Hopefully, that is not the case.

Good luck!
Ronh DDS

Is it normal to have discharge after tooth extraction?

Depends, it is normal for a little bloody oozing for a few hours. But anything longer than that or yellow or white could be an infection and you need to see a DDS.

Why does my 5 year old have so many cavities?

Well now...genetic - yes, that’s a part of it. More likely is sugar consumption, and lack of adequate brushing, etc. Sugary cereals are terrible. Ditto for candy, etc. This doesn’t READ MORE
Well now...genetic - yes, that’s a part of it. More likely is sugar consumption, and lack of adequate brushing, etc. Sugary cereals are terrible. Ditto for candy, etc. This doesn’t mean no sugars allowed, BUT limit the exposure and brush! Most children are not good enough at brushing to do it on their own. Another bad culprit for very young children is putting them to bed for nap or sleep with a baby bottle of juice or other sugar-filled liquids. Your child’s decay problems could have begun this way years ago. Get them fixed at the dentist, figure out the sugar exposure, and change that up.
Good luck. Merry Christmas!

Ron H., DDS

Do cavities cause sensitivity?

Yes, definitely. And if ignored too long, it will infect the nerve, cause an abscess and severe pain. Such infections that near the brain have in a few cases caused death. Go get READ MORE
Yes, definitely. And if ignored too long, it will infect the nerve, cause an abscess and severe pain. Such infections that near the brain have in a few cases caused death. Go get it fixed!

Ron H., DDS

Should I brush my teeth after tooth extraction?

Not near the extractions site, but everywhere else, yes. You do not want to disrupt the clot/healing area.

Ron H., DDS

Does the dentist numb you for a deep cleaning?

It depends on your pain tolerance. If you request it, your DDS should provide it for you. However, in my 40-year experience, oftentimes a generous application of a good topical READ MORE
It depends on your pain tolerance. If you request it, your DDS should provide it for you. However, in my 40-year experience, oftentimes a generous application of a good topical anesthetic works quite well and avoids the needle sticks.
Good luck!

Ron H., DDS

How long after bone graft can I eat?

That’s one you’ll need to ask your doctor that places the graft & follow it exactly.

Ron H., DDS

Can you put veneers over crowns?

Sorry, but no, cannot do that.

Ron H., DDS

What could be the cause of crown pain?

Possibly it’s a little too high, especially if you feel it hit first when you close. If this is it, your DDS should be able to adjust the bite and fix it easily. Good luck, Ron READ MORE
Possibly it’s a little too high, especially if you feel it hit first when you close. If this is it, your DDS should be able to adjust the bite and fix it easily.

Good luck,

Ron H., DDS

Is root scaling good before braces or Invisalign?

All depends on the health and condition of your gum tissue and bone support. If they’re healthy and no pocketing or bleeding, then no. If not healthy, don’t start ortho till they READ MORE
All depends on the health and condition of your gum tissue and bone support. If they’re healthy and no pocketing or bleeding, then no. If not healthy, don’t start ortho till they are.
Hope this helps you.

Ron H., DDS

Can I drink water after a deep cleaning?

Yes. But watch the temperature - too cold may be sensitive for a while. If so, get a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Good luck.

Do I need to see a dentist before an oral surgeon?

Not necessarily, if your oral surgeon will see you without a referral from your dentist. Call the oral surgeon's office and ask.

Good luck,

Dr Ron H.

How long should you wear partial dentures each day?

You should at least take them out over night. Also They are notorious for trapping food. So, after each meal at least rinse & swish with water if you cannot brush. Trapped food READ MORE
You should at least take them out over night. Also They are notorious for trapping food. So, after each meal at least rinse & swish with water if you cannot brush. Trapped food under it leads to recurrent decay on the teeth that clasps hook to.

Good luck,

Ron H.

What's the difference between teeth whitening and bleaching?

No difference. Just 2 different words, do the same things.

What is an implant bridge?

An implant bridge would be a replacement of multiple teeth.

Is it ok to brush teeth with baking soda with braces?

Baking soda can be pretty abrasive, so be careful, don’t irritate your gums with it. Should probably not overuse it. Once a day max probably, best at night before bed. A sonicare READ MORE
Baking soda can be pretty abrasive, so be careful, don’t irritate your gums with it. Should probably not overuse it. Once a day max probably, best at night before bed. A sonicare brush is your best option.

Good luck,

Ron H., DDS

Do you need straight teeth for composite bonding?

Hello, Not necessarily. Part of the purpose for such bonding is to make crooked teeth look straighter. In 40 years' practice experience, porcelain laminate veneers typically READ MORE
Hello,

Not necessarily. Part of the purpose for such bonding is to make crooked teeth look straighter. In 40 years' practice experience, porcelain laminate veneers typically give a superior result,
last longer, and are less likely to stain or chip off.
Good luck!

Ron H., DDS