What to do if your child's tooth gets knocked out, from Dr. McDonald

I hardly get called for emergencies but when I do most of the time it is over the weekend. The reason for the call is usually not a toothache but a knocked out or severely damaged front tooth from a sport accident. The results are usually devastating, despite our best efforts to save the tooth. Over time the tooth is usually lost with a resulting space that forces your young child to wear a retainer with a tooth in it until they are 16-18 years old at which point we have to place an implant and a crown. Not only is this just horrible for a young child to wear a fake tooth for a long time but the cost is devastating to parents.

All of this can be avoided by wearing a sport guard. I am not talking about a sports authority sport guard but one that is custom made for your child's mouth and for the particular sport to withstand the forces should an accident come your way. I hope this never happens to anyone but if it does I hope you have listened to me and protected your child's smile.

What to do If your child's tooth gets knocked out:

You have to find the tooth immediately and handle it from the tooth portion and not the root portion. Do not touch the root as most of the tissue is hopefully still alive.

Attempt to line up the tooth and put it back into the socket the best that you can after placing the tooth in your child's cheek to clean it. Please do not run the tooth under hot water. If you have saline you can place it in the solution for a minute and then replant the tooth.

If you don't have the stomach to place the tooth in the socket, keep it in your child's cheek and call us immediately. Please do not wrap the tooth in a tissue. If your child is traumatized and will not keep it in their cheek place it in milk or saline solution till you get to our office. There is only a 45 minute window to place the tooth back in the socket. After this time line the chances of success decrease tremendously.

Wouldn't it be better to just wear a professionally made mouth guard?

Dr. McDonald

Love your or your child's smile? Tell us about it!

Caring. Comfortable. A gentle touch. Pain-free. Exceptional service. Those words aren't usually associated with dental care, are they? Well, at LifetimeSmiles, our patients use those words frequently to describe their dental experience with us.

At LifetimeSmiles, we look at every patient as a whole to ensure you get all the personalized attention you deserve. Drs. Rabee McDonald and Jeff Prais provide comprehensive care for your overall health.

Whether you’ve just come in for a single appointment or your family has been visiting our convenient Escondido, CA dental office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google Places page!

We look forward to reading your reviews!

Dr. McDonald and team, celebrating National Dental Health Month

Did you know February is National Dental Health Month? It's a great time of the year to renew those resolutions about continuing to practice great dental hygiene at home and by visiting Lifetime Smiles. Today, we thought we'd discuss the importance of preventative oral care. While most people are familiar with traditional heart-saving practices such as eating healthy and exercising regularly, lesser-known are the benefits that great oral hygiene provides to one’s cardiovascular health.

Here are a few tips to help you continue those New Year's resolutions:

*Remember that poor oral hygiene is linked to serious common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia and osteoporosis.

*Brush and floss every day to remove the plaque that can lead to cavities. Flossing daily removes food debris that your toothbrush cannot reach after meals.

*Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or after a cold or illness to prevent re-infection. Remember to use a soft toothbrush so you won’t wear off the enamel of your teeth.

*Visit our Escondido office regularly. The American Dental Association recommends you visit Drs. McDonald and Prais every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. Fluoride treatments twice a year will help prevent tooth decay.

Each February (and all year long), our team at Lifetime Smiles focus on the preventive oral care of our patients. Have you visited our office the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Your dental & cardiovascular health, from Lifetime Smiles

Happy Monday!

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!

January featured patient testimonials!

Here they are, our January featured testimonials! Thanks again to everyone who wrote in - happy new year from Dr. Rabee McDonald all of us at Lifetime Smiles!

"For me, a trip to LS is much more than an "appointment" or "office visit". I honestly feel I am simply visiting friends. I love the casual and "humorous" atmosphere. I always tease them about my "special discount", but the services are exceptional and an incredible value for the attention and care I receive." - Ernie N.

"Kelly was great. I miss my Stacy but it was fun being asked what toothbrush I used and how often I flossed. Kari Witman PS- I was getting the bidding up on the toothbrush you donated and ended up being the last bidder. The YMCA thanks you and this sonic care is Much easier to clean. Thanks again." - Keri W.

"That was the fastest crown I have ever received! Great and no pain!" - Becky S.

"The coffee was good, the conversation stimulating, and the people gracious. It didn't hurt a bit. (Of course, it was my wife who sat in the dentist chair!)" - Allen H.

Don’t throw those insurance benefits away!

Today, Dr. Rabee McDonald and our team thought we would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it’s high time to schedule your final 2011 dental visit so you optimize your benefits.

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us – space is limited and we tend to get very busy around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call!

See you soon!

When you need immediate dental care, we’re here for you.

At Lifetime Smiles, we know dental emergencies are never convenient or timely. If you are a patient of record, we are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you.

We are here to help you, any time, any day, and when your dental health is at risk, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that you’re treated as soon as possible. While dental emergencies are rare, we know they can happen at any moment, and it’s important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what.

Common dental emergencies include:

• A bitten lip or tongue
• Broken or cracked tooth/teeth
• Broken jaw
• Permanent tooth that has been knocked out
• Object caught between teeth
• Severe toothache

If you have a dental emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to contact Dr. Rabee McDonald or Dr. Jeff Prais. We proudly serve patients from Escondido, among other surrounding communities in the San Diego area.

We hope you’re all enjoying your summer.

August featured patient testimonials!

Here they are, our August featured testimonials! Thanks again to everyone who wrote in - we hope everybody is having a great summer!

Wow! Thanks for such quick service. I cracked a tooth and was in San Bernardino. Called and asked for an appointment and was told come on in. Dr McDonald started on the tooth at 1:40 and by 4:10 I was on my way with a new tooth. The only thing that could make it better would be martini's after the work is done. You guys are GREAT!
Mike G.

Dr. McDonald did a fast efficient job of replacing my old filling. She explained each step of the procedure and checked constantly to see if I was having any discomfort.
Mike A.

Dr. McDonald's laser procedure for TMJ was more like a spa treatment than a normal dentist's visit. The laser (far infra-red) was warm and relaxing. Thanks, Dr. McDonald!
Sonia B.

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.

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!

The Dental Soft Tissue Laser Is Here!

The famous saying around our office is: What new toys do you guys have? As you all know, I am a dental technology junkie!

I could not resist buying this soft tissue laser because of its many advantages.
The main use for this soft tissue laser is for treatment of periodontal disease. More than 70% of the U.S. population has some degree of gum disease. In the past we have only had the option of deep cleanings, local antibiotics, and finally the very dreaded and painful gum surgery!

Periodontal disease surgery - Lasers are wonderful for soft tissue periodontal therapy. Laser periodontal therapy is used to remove diseased soft tissue and is generally bloodless and painless. The laser also reduces periodontal infection by killing the periodontal bacteria causing the disease. I had the procedure done on myself a few months ago and was so pleased with the results and most importantly, lack of pain.

The laser can also be used to treat those painful apthous ulcers, as well as as relieving TMJ pain. It may also be used for plastic gum surgery such as evening out the contours of your gums to create a more proportional smile.
Last but not least, the laser is used for in office whitening. It is painless, quick and effective.

So now you know why we are so excited about this technology!

Lastly, we invite you to join us on our official Facebook page! You can keep up with us and what is going on in the dental world.

How important is your smile? From Dr. McDonald

Caring. Comfortable. A gentle touch. Pain-free. Exceptional service. Those words aren't usually associated with dental care, are they? Well, at LifetimeSmiles, our patients use those words frequently to describe their dental experience with us.

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

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 call our Escondido, CA dental office to schedule your appointment today.

Staff Spotlight: Chris at Lifetime Smiles

Our staff spotlight focuses this week on Chris Young, an excellent dental hygienist with Lifetime Smiles. Chris has four daughters (and husbands) and six grandchildren. She is very active in her church and loves hiking and dancing.

Get to meet Chris a little more on our website!

February marks National Dental Health Month!

Did you know February is National Dental Health Month? It's a great time of the year to renew those resolutions about continuing to practice great dental hygiene at home and by visiting Lifetime Smiles. Today, we thought we'd discuss the importance of preventative oral care. While most people are familiar with traditional heart-saving practices such as eating healthy and exercising regularly, lesser-known are the benefits that great oral hygiene provides to one’s cardiovascular health.

Here are a few tips to help you continue those New Year's resolutions:

*Remember that poor oral hygiene is linked to serious common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia and osteoporosis.

*Brush and floss every day to remove the plaque that can lead to cavities. Flossing daily removes food debris that your toothbrush cannot reach after meals.

*Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or after a cold or illness to prevent re-infection. Remember to use a soft toothbrush so you won’t wear off the enamel of your teeth.

*Visit our Escondido office regularly. The American Dental Association recommends you visit Drs. McDonald and Prais every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. Fluoride treatments twice a year will help prevent tooth decay.

Each February (and all year long), our team at Lifetime Smiles focus on the preventive oral care of our patients. Have you visited our office the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

February featured patient review for Lifetime Smiles!

Check out what a few of our patients are saying about our staff at Lifetime Smiles lately! Thanks for writing in, everyone!

"The quality of service was excellent. Every one was so nice and helpful. They all made sure I was treated to the highest quality from beginning to end. The staff were amazing, and the equipment was all new-age, digital and comfortable."
Stacy, F.

"As a PTSD patient, I admit that I have never left this office without a smile or giving a hug. Try them, you'll like the treatment and personal care."
Celeste, F.

"Everyone is so friendly but yet always professional. It is easy to visit this dentist office." Mauree. B.

"Because I am like most people, and going to the Dentist is not my favorite activity; however, the staff at Dr. McDonald's always make me feel so welcome that I look forward to seeing them all. They are all great, and that is why I am a 20 + years patient of theirs, and highly recommend them." Kathy B.

"It's ALWAYS a very pleasant experience - actually heard a new patient commenting on his visit was so nice - he'll actually start getting his cleanings done on a regular basis! They are an amazing team of dentists!" Monica B.

By the way, Facebook is a great place to tell us how we're doing, but we also encourage you to head to our Google Places page and leave a short review there. Your generous reviews help Drs. McDonald and Prais build more beautiful smiles!

Cosmetic dentistry at Lifetime Smiles: The advantage

Some people simply want to look younger, and cosmetic dentistry at our Escondido office is like a dental facelift that can quickly "reverse" the natural aging process of the teeth. Others, the majority, have had unattractive teeth their whole lives and have always felt self-conscious because of them. They will rarely smile, which can often hide a warm side of their personality.

At Lifetime Smiles, we use various treatments to achieve your perfect smile, such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, porcelain laminates, inlays and onlays and full porcelain crowns. Oral Valium and N2O2 (Nitrous Oxide) is available for apprehensive patients.

Please call our Escondido, CA dental office to learn more about cosmetic dentistry.

Lastly, a BIG hanks to Maureen M., who writes in, "Lifetime Smiles provides quality dental care in a comfortable and relaxing environment. They are very attentive to their patients' needs while expressing a genuine interest in their dental well-being."

Are those rumors about swallowing bubble gum true?

Great question. At Lifetime Smiles, we know the rumors going around that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Give us a call at our convenient Escondido office if you have any questions!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing from Dr. McDonald and our entire staff!

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.

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!