Good Breath Gone Bad! From Dr. McDonald

At Lifetime Smiles, we know bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you are out on a date you’ve had a crush on for months or at an important social function! However, bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as Drs. McDonald and Prais may call it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit our Escondido office every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh!

Not letting your nerves get the best of you on your date or during your social function? That’s up to you!

LifetimeSmiles nominated for BEST San Diego Dentist!

GREAT NEWS! We have been nominated for BEST San Diego Dentist! If you love us, please vote for us by clicking the orange 'Vote for Us' button! Top 5 dentists will be announced on CBS 8 news on Sunday, July 10. Please dig deep and find some kind words about us from the bottom of your heart. Love you all and thank you for your continued support of our practice. We strive high to provide you with the absolute best dentistry because you deserve it!

What's on your summer reading list?

With a lot of our patients at Escondido's Lifetime Smiles traveling this summer or grabbing some much-needed R&R on the hammock or at the beach, Dr. Rabee McDonald and team thought today would be a great time to ask: What's on your summer reading list?

Sure it’s easier to go relax at the beach, hit the mall or watch TV most days, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development. After all, TV doesn’t replicate the experience of reading a good book – books are great for kids as well, as reading helps children maintain their skill level.

If you’re out of ideas for summer reading material? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be happy to provide a few good suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out this summer reading suggestions that we found earlier today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading!

June featured patient reviews for Lifetime Smiles!

Here they are, our June featured patient testimonials! Again, a huge THANK YOU to everyone who wrote in and all of you who continue to say such wonderful things about our office!

"It is always an amazing experience at Lifetime Smiles. So good to see you all and catch up with you....Even though there are many dentists between my home in El Cajon and your practice, there is NO way I will ever change....Thanks Kelly and Dr McDonald....you guys rock!" ~ Elaine, B.

"Excellent Service - The staff, as always, was so personal and friendly. The tooth cleaning was done very professionally and, once again, very personal and friendly." ~ Shirley, C.

"After 3 years of looking for a dentist, my son finally said he wants to come back. Thank you" ~ Anonymous

"Quick, easy, and painless...and a movie. Less than an hour later I'm having lunch with friends. Can't beat that." ~ Kristen B.

"How many times do I have to tell you how good you are? As usual, my "sort of" urgent care was successful and appreciated. Also, thanks for taking such good care of my mother, Nellie Askegreen. Going to the dentist at age 90 could be an ordeal......it was not....and she was pleased. Thanks again." ~ Bev J.

"My family(8 of us) has been with this office for over 10 years now. Never a complaint." ~ Joe C.

"This has to be one of the most efficient well run dental offices in the world. I actually look forward to going to the dentist. Very very clean office and a professional and courteous staff. I truly recommend Lifetime Smiles in Escondido." ~ Curtis S.