Every August, I notice the same welcome rush of energy here in our community — families are squeezing in last summer adventures while simultaneously scrambling to get kids ready for a new school year. As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at West Valley OMS, just a short drive from the heart of the Salt Lake City area, I find that this particular time of year brings a unique mix of oral health needs through our doors. Summer’s end has a way of reminding people to take care of things they’ve been putting off, and for many young adults and teenagers, that often means finally addressing wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth are very much a back-to-school concern. College students heading off to campuses across Utah — or returning home for the summer — often time their extractions deliberately so they can recover during a break rather than missing class. If your son or daughter is between semesters or wrapping up summer work, now is genuinely one of the best windows to have an evaluation done. Early removal, before the roots are fully developed and before crowding or infection set in, tends to mean a smoother recovery and fewer complications down the road.

Beyond wisdom teeth, the Salt Lake City area summer lifestyle itself presents a few oral health reminders worth keeping in mind. Hydration matters more than most people realize — our Utah heat and dry air can significantly reduce saliva production, which is your mouth’s natural defense against bacteria and decay. Sports drinks and flavored waters are popular this time of year, but many contain hidden sugars and acids that quietly erode enamel. Plain water, especially fluoridated tap water, remains the gold standard for keeping your mouth healthy through these warm months. If your family is active with youth sports — and Salt Lake City families certainly are — please make sure young athletes are wearing properly fitted mouthguards. A custom-made guard from your dental provider offers far better protection than anything off the shelf.

August is also a natural moment to book those dental appointments that slipped through the cracks during a busy summer. Many dental insurance plans reset at year’s end, so using benefits now makes good financial sense. If anyone in your household has been experiencing jaw pain, difficulty opening their mouth, or a nagging toothache, please don’t wait. These are signals your body sends before a smaller problem becomes a larger one.

At West Valley OMS, we are genuinely proud to serve the families of the Salt Lake City area and surrounding communities. Our team understands that coming in for an oral surgery consultation can feel daunting, and we work hard every day to make the experience comfortable, clear, and as stress-free as possible. I warmly invite you to reach out to us and schedule a consultation — we would love to be part of keeping your family healthy and smiling all year long.