Your dental & cardiovascular health

Don’t put off your next visit to LifetimeSmiles any longer! As we’ve shared in previous blog posts, oral health issues have been increasingly linked to other health concerns, such as heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains American’s number one killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Studies are also beginning to suggest that patients, especially those with periodontal disease, are believed to have an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. Since most patients are not regularly visiting a heart specialist, their regular visits to the office of Dr. Rabee McDonald can help detect early warning signs of heart issues, prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. We’d also like you to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25).

Additionally, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our Escondido dental office, please give us a call!

Ask Dr. McDonald: Can germs really live on my son’s toothbrush?

Thank you for the question, and yes, absolutely. Germs are known to linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart this summer - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us if you have any questions or ask Dr. McDonald and our team at Lifetime Smiles on Facebook.

July featured patient reviews for Lifetime Smiles!

"I am so so glad I finally signed up at Lifetime Smiles. My family has been patients for years, and I have always loved the staff. They are professional yet so friendly, you'd think you were their favorite clients! I would recommend Lifetime Smiles to everyone, knowing that I was sending them to the best of Escondido!" ~ Alicia W.

"My visit was wonderful, as per usual. All of the office staff have wonderful personalities and are knowledgeable and professional. And I love Dr. McDonald, she is a joy!" ~ Winfred K.

"Rabee and her staff provide caring and efficient dental services. The facility is attractive, clean and comfortable. The equipment is the best and the skilled technicians are quick. It's almost fun to go to the dentist." ~ Barbara B.

"An extraordinary care with excellent result. Best dental experience ever. Couldn't be more pleased." ~ Jack D.

Does Dr. McDonald have your current contact info?

We hope you’re having a great week and a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your scheduled appointment with Dr. McDonald or Dr. Prais, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call and and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please call us at our Escondido office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you.

Thank you! Enjoy your weekend!

Are regular checkups really that important? You bet.

Happy Friday! Dr. Rabee McDonald and our team want to know: Are you brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing? If the answer is yes, we think that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit our Escondido office every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day and flossing. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Drs. McDonald, Prais and our staff can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt

• Detect cavities and early signs of decay

• Treat oral health problems early

• Show you how to properly brush or floss

During an oral exam we will usually check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to our office in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment! Summer makes for a great time for a quick visit!

PS, Have a great Fourth of July weekend everyone!