What's your New Year's resolution?

2010 is almost over—and what a year it was! Dr. Rabee McDonald and our staff at Lifetime Smiles thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you most looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues in Escondido, San Diego and surrounding communities.

Lastly, a HUGE thanks to Greg, who writes in this week:

"Highly impressed with the state-of-the-art dental checkup and warm professionalism of this office."

See you all in 2011!

Season's greetings from Dr. McDonald and family

Season's Greetings and a Happy New Year from Dr. McDonald and family to all our patients, friends, family, and all our dental and medical colleagues.

More happy smiles at Lifetime Smiles!

Caring. Comfortable. A gentle touch. Pain-free. Exceptional service. Those words aren't usually associated with dental care, are they? Well, at Lifetime Smiles, our patients use those words frequently to describe their dental experience with us. Just see what a few of them are saying about our Escondido office!

"Thanks to the staff of Lifetime Smiles...it is like spending an hour with your family. They are kind, caring compassionate. The service and dental care is the best I have ever had." ~ Elaine, B.

"Dr. McDonald's office set it up so that my visits are covered by my insurance company, who had not previously been accepted yet by Lifetime Smiles. The staff is professional, yet very personable & they have made me feel like a valued customer. Thanks you Lifetime Smiles, not only for the good dental care, but for accommodating my financial needs & being so friendly about it" ~ Marykate, B.

"It was wonderful to be greated so kindly even when showing up a week early, thank you for working me in to the schedule. All you staff is always wonderful." ~ Kathryn, B.

"My comfort during the dental work seemed to be as important as the dental work that I had done. I really appreciated that as it made the experience more pleasant." ~ Diana F.

"Lifetime Smiles makes going to the dentist less stressful. Thank you to the friendly staff!" ~ Julia E.

Ask LifetimeSmiles: How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Thanks for the question. Our staff at Escondido's LifetimeSmiles will tell you one of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for periodontal disease, also known as gum disease.

These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

Our friends at the American Academy of Periodontology created a helpful self assessment test that can help you determine what your risk is at home. Early detection is critical to avoiding serious and costly dental problems.

Of course, the best way to know for sure what the health of your teeth and gums is would be a visit to our Escondido office.

Great dental care starts the moment you enter our office. Our first concern is to ensure that your needs are being met, whether it's to ease your nervousness or to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We want you to have a positive experience each time you're with us. You'll always be greeted warmly and treated with the utmost care. Please give us a call to schedule your appointment today.

What helps you relax at LifetimeSmiles?

Dr. McDonald and team understand not everyone is always thrilled about visiting their dentist. But here at LifetimeSmiles, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our Escondido office that makes you comfortable or puts you or your child at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our courteous staff? Drs. McDonald or Prais themselves?

Let us know by posting on Facebook or by giving us a call!

Featured patient review for Lifetime Smiles!

Check out what Anna T., one of our dear patients at Lifetime Smiles, said about our office: "I have always felt very comfortable and very relaxed at this dentist. I felt very special the very first time I visited this office. I want to thank all of you for the excellent care you give to your patients - my visit was excellent thank you to... Chris, who did my cleaning - it was painless and she was amazing to me. I love it. thank you with all my heart."

Anna, thanks so much, we love having you in!