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!

Cold season is here, from Lifetime Smiles

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Drs. Rabee McDonald, Jeff Prais and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Escondido office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Lifetime Smiles, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes: What’s the Difference? From Dr. McDonald

Everybody is jumping on the electric toothbrush bandwagon in recent years, with many experts in the dental field claiming electric toothbrushes provide superior dental care. It’s true that electric toothbrushes are recommended for those who can’t do a good job brushing manually or who have arthritis or other conditions. But manual toothbrushes do have some advantages, according to an article we recently found including:

• Cost. While electric toothbrushes may be expensive for many people, manual toothbrushes are both inexpensive and accessible.

• Less pressure on your teeth & gums. While we can feel the amount of pressure we’re using as we grasp our manual toothbrush, we can’t feel the pressure nearly as well with an electric toothbrush. Placing too much pressure on our teeth can wear away at the tooth enamel, which causes pain, sensitivity, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Simple to pack. Manual toothbrushes are easy to carry around for those business or family trips. People are less likely to let their good dental care habits lapse on vacation with a toothbrush that they can easily bring along!

• Better for kids. Learning at a young age how to properly use a manual toothbrush helps children get a feel for how to properly take care of their oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more effective in removing plaque and are considered a better alternative to maintaining gum health. Remember, whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, Dr. Rabee McDonald and our team at LifetimeSmiles encourage you to choose one with soft bristles and be sure to change the bristles on the electric brush when they become worn down. We also encourage you to replace your toothbrush every three months, when the bristles are no longer straight and firm or after you recover from a cold.

Give us a call if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook! Happy brushing!

September featured patient testimonials!

Check out what patients are saying about Dr. Rabee McDonald & our team at Lifetime Smiles! Thanks to everyone who wrote in!

“Treatment at Lifetime Smiles is consistently excellent. The caring, professional competence of Dr. McDonald and her staff, as well as their understanding of patient sensivities, provide nervous patients such as myself the courage and confidence to regularly visit. On behalf of myself and other patients, thank you for your efforts.” - Rosemary T.

"Like always everyone at Life Time Smiles was wonderful. However, I wasn't thrilled that I needed another crown. Your staff even made that feel better. I always enjoy my visits." - Sue P.

"Between the professionalism, friendliness and overall office ambiance, it's always a pleasant experience (even for things you'd rather not have done to you). They make it as nice as they can." - Mike C.

"It never ceases to amaze me of how pleasant it is for all my visits to Dr McDonald`s office. From the staff`s professionalism to the true caring of Dr. McDonald. It is a blessing to be so comfortable for my dental visits. Thank you Dr.McDonald." - Mike K.

"The office is great! The staff is so nice. 3 out of 4 in my family went on the same day. Very comforting and relaxing..." - Jennifer L.

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 at our Escondido office.

Ask Dr. McDonald: What’s the deal with coffee and tea?

At the office of Dr. Rabee McDonald we know most folks enjoy a hot-brewed coffee or tea in the morning, followed by a cola (or more coffee) in the afternoon. But what many don’t know is that both coffee and tea are especially tough on your teeth, because tannic acid (the substance that makes the dark color) etches into the pits and grooves of tooth enamel, and can stain your pearly whites brown.

So, if you can’t give up that morning cup o’joe, what can you do? Dr. McDonald and team suggest rinsing with a glass of water after every cup. If you enjoy iced coffee or tea, drink your beverage with a straw so that tannins don’t make contact with your front upper and lower teeth. Even if you’re not a big coffee drinker, we encourage you to swish and swallow some water at the end of each meal. Water, after all, helps neutralize acids left in your mouth after eating and also reduces cavity-causing bacteria.

Dr. McDonald and our staff also invite you to visit our convenient Escondido office for whitening options. We can help bleach your teeth with proven and professional products. To learn more about whitening options at our office, please visit our website, ask us on Facebook or give us a call!

Dental fun facts with Lifetime Smiles!

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Dr. McDonald and our team at Lifetime Smiles came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your last checkup? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call!

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.

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.

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!

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.

What are patients saying about LifetimeSmiles?

"If god needed a dentist, he would choose Lifetime Smiles, clean, professional, honest." ~ Anonymous

"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."
Gregory F.

"2 caps start to finish 3.5 hrs, very comfortable - Dr McDonald & Michael were Kind,careful & it did not hurt. watched a movie and left with 2 new crowns no temps!! Great experience" ~ Laura L.

Our Facebook page 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 our team at Lifetime Smiles build more beautiful smiles here in Escondido and surrounding communities!

Summer specials at Lifetime Smiles!

For the months of July and August only, we are offering 10% off of the fee that you would pay for fillings or crowns. Call us at 760-747-1811 to schedule your appointment. We have a limited amount of appointments available, so call today. Mention this ad and take advantage of this online special!

Connect with Lifetime Smiles on Facebook!

At Lifetime Smiles, we value the relationships we have developed with our patients here in Escondido and surrounding communities around San Diego. Even if you only see us for your appointment on a regular basis, did you know that you can now connect with Drs. McDonald & Prais and team on our Facebook page?

We invite you to “like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/LifetimeSmiles. We share office news, announcements and updates on our Fan Page, so check it out! By Liking our page, you will receive updates from our office automatically through your Facebook news feed!

See you on Facebook and have a great week,

- The Lifetime Smiles staff

Dr. McDonald and team want to know: what are you reading this summer?

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 remind our patients to keep reading to keep their minds healthy, sharp and strong. Summer is a great time to remind kids to keep reading to maintain their skill level and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Dr. McDonald’s 13-year-old daughter, Caitlin (above), recommends the following three books for you to enjoy this summer:

The Giver by Lois Lowry
City of Ember by Jeanne Duprau
Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Featured patient review for Dr. McDonald and Lifetime Smiles!

Dr. McDonald recently received a letter from Marianna, a patient who was more than excited to share her feelings for our work at Lifetime Smiles. We are always happy to receive such beautiful and well-written letters from our patients' hearts:

Dear Dr. McDonald & the Lifetime Smiles Team,

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you all for restoring my faith in the dental profession. Never in a million years, with all my previous horror stories on dental visits, would I have ever thought I would be writing a letter to a dental office.

From the first time I walked into your practice, scared to death, and was greeted with such warmth and caring, to watching how you and your staff interact with each other to having my fears calmed, I knew I had finally found what I had been desperately searching for in a dental provider.

I will continue to refer whomever I can to your practice. I know they would be taken care of just as you have taken care of me. I can’t yet say I will always look forward to our visits, but am much less nervous about coming in. At the least, I will look forward to seeing you and your staff.

Wishing you continued success and our future partnership in my dental wellbeing.

~ Marianna A.

Take a tour of our office with Dr. McDonald!

If you know Dr. Rabee McDonald and staff, you know everything we do in our Escondido office revolves around making our patients feel right at home. Because your comfort at our office is one of our highest concerns, we offer gourmet Coffee and tea, water and juice, your choice of movies, headphones, warm towels, lotion or lip balm.

After all, there's a reason patients come to our office and say, "Hey, Dr. McDonald, this looks like my family room!"

Check out the above video as Dr. McDonald walks you through our office and talks about some of her favorite treatments. At LifetimeSmiles, we are committed to excellence and strive to always have the latest dental equipment on hand for your convenience. After all, we want you to be as comfortable as you are in your own home!

Stay connected with LifetimeSmiles!

At LifetimeSmiles, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments Drs. McDonald and Prais offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While our doctors and staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

Have a great weekend and Happy Mother's Day to all our moms!!