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At Lifetime Smiles, we understand that getting dental care during COVID-19 can be concerning. But seeing the dentist is safe, particularly if you visit our office. 

Dr. Christo Mallakis and Dr. Rabee McDonald have always taken your safety very seriously. In this blog, we’ll explain what you should expect when you return to the dentist during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Don’t Put Off Preventive Oral Care 

First of all, it’s safe to see the dentist. All major health organizations agree that seeing the dentist is a very low-risk activity, particularly as vaccinations continue to be administered and the COVID-19 pandemic begins to subside.

Preventive care is essential for preserving your oral health. If you avoid seeing the dentist due to fears surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be putting your oral health at risk. Minor dental issues may go unnoticed, and turn into more serious conditions. Be mindful of your risk of developing oral issues like gum disease or tooth decay, and make an educated decision that will keep your oral health and overall health on track. 

Oral Health Issues That May Be Caused By The Pandemic 

You may think that skipping a cleaning or two is no big deal. However, during your regular appointments, your hygienist and dentist will look for other signs of damage. For example, stress — what we’ve all been feeling during this pandemic — is a main trigger for teeth grinding which can wear down enamel or lead to TMJ issues. You may not even realize you’re grinding your teeth because it usually occurs during sleep. Regular checkups allow your dentist to keep track of your bite and let you know if we see anything to be concerned about. 

How We’re Protecting Patients During And After The COVID-19 Pandemic 

At Lifetime Smiles, we’ve always practiced what we call “universal precautions”, meaning we presume that every patient has some type of illness that can be transmitted and vice versa. That’s why we take very meticulous precautions to protect ourselves and our patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken several additional measures, including:

  • Screening questionnaire – You’ll fill out a digital screening questionnaire before your appointment or once you arrive at our office. We’ll also take touchless temperature checks, which helps us screen out people who may have contracted COVID-19.
  • Waiting in your car – Give us a call when you arrive and stay in your car. Then, we’ll call you in when it’s time for your appointment. You can skip the waiting room!
  • Hygiene measures – We ask that you wear a mask or face covering until you reach your treatment room. We will have sanitizer for your hands, and give you a special mouthwash to rinse with before your treatment.
  • Enhanced cleaning – Our team cleans operatories between appointments to sanitize spaces and ensure that each patient has a clean, safe treatment area. We are also regularly cleaning commonly-touched surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, chairs, tables, and bathrooms for an all-around safe environment. 

Additionally, we are always following the latest recommendations from the CDC, ADA, and local authorities. Feel free to review a comprehensive list of COVID-19 Protocols & Guidelines that we’ve implemented at our practice. We’ll keep this page updated as we learn more or as restrictions change. And as the pandemic slows, we will reassess the steps we’re taking to ensure a great dental experience. 

Contact Lifetime Smiles For Preventive Dental Care In Escondido 

If you’re in Valley Center, San Marcos, North County, or Escondido, Lifetime Smiles is here to help you get the dental care you need. We are taking every possible step to protect you during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re overdue for your next dental cleaning and exam, we’re here to help. Contact us online or give us a call at (760) 747-1811 to schedule an appointment right away. 

Dr. Rabee McDonald

I am a 1995 graduate of the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Dental Medicine and completed my post-doctorate training at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center at Newark, New Jersey. I am proud to provide my patients with the best in dental technology, treatment options and patient comfort. I spend several weekends a year at the world renowned Spear Education center to keep up with best dentists in the world.