With vacations scheduled and kids out of school, for many of us summer is a time to kick back and relax. Before you do so, though, you might consider making a dental to-do list. Check out our suggested list items below to keep you and your family’s smiles in great shape this summer – and beyond.

  1. Schedule Your Exams
  2. Start Your Orthodontic Treatment
  3. Drink Plenty of Water
  4. Wear a Mouthguard
  5. Prepare for Emergencies
  6. Treat Your Sleep Apnea

Any questions? Give us a call at 732-945-5343.

Put Exams on Your Dental To-Do List

Quite simply, you can’t have healthy teeth and gums without regular exams and cleanings. We suggest visiting our Red Bank, NJ office every six months for these essential services. The early summer is a great time to do so. You’ll avoid the end-of-summer rush that often happens with folks trying to get in their family’s exams before school starts. Your exams are also a great time to ask our team about cosmetic and restorative services you may be considering.

Begin Your Journey to a Straight Smile

With any kind of orthodontics, whether it’s braces or Invisalign, there is an adjustment period. You may experience some minor discomfort. Even with clear aligners you may feel a bit self-conscious at first, especially when speaking. We recommend starting your orthodontics treatment over the summer, when you probably spend less time at school or work. Then when things gear up again in the fall, you’ll be more comfortable with your orthodontics.

Stay Hydrated This Summer

Dry mouth can be a problem in the summer months. You perspire more, which can result in a shortage of saliva. If you spend a lot of time in the pool, chlorine can dry out your mouth. The best way to counter this uncomfortable condition is to drink lots of water – two liters a day, if possible. Stick to plain water as much as you can and avoid beverages with caffeine, which has a diuretic effect.

Include a Mouthguard in Your Athletic Gear

Summer is a great time to play sports. Doing so is a fun way to improve your physical fitness. However, it can also put your mouth in danger, especially if your games involve a ball. Ask our dentists about a custom-fit mouthguard. Wearing one helps you avoid injuries like cracked and broken teeth. Made with dental impressions, a custom mouthguard fits better than one from a store. So you won’t mind wearing it.

Always Be Prepared for Emergencies

Before you go on vacation, you should assemble a first aid kit – especially if you’ll be camping or participating in other activities where immediate medical attention may not be available. It’s a good idea to pack a few items for dealing with dental emergencies. For example, dental cement can help you keep a broken crown or a loose filling in place until you can see a dentist. Program our number into your phone too. We’re happy to provide you with advice on how best to handle your emergency.

Stop Putting Off Sleep Apnea Treatment

If you’ll be in close quarters with others on a camping trip or other vacation, you won’t want your snoring to keep them awake. Ask our dentists about a custom-made mouthguard that will stop snoring and relieve unpleasant sleep apnea symptoms like dry mouth, headaches, and daytime fatigue. A mouthguard is far more convenient for travel than a CPAP machine, because you can easily tuck it into a pocket or purse.

Let us help you with your summer dental to-do list! Call Denise BiBona, DDS, LLC today at 732-945-5343.