COLORADO SPRINGS — A new program from DOCS Dental is helping military families maintain their oral health during the busy summer months. The on-base dental provider has launched its Summer Smiles Initiative, a campaign that promotes preventive care and encourages families to schedule check-ups.
Mark Blakenship, Director of Operations at DOCS Dental, appeared on FOX21 Morning News on Friday, July 25, to explain the effort. He noted that frequent relocations often make it difficult for military families to maintain consistent care.
“One of the hardest things for military families is moving every two to four years,” Blakenship said. “Each time, the active duty member is assigned to a new clinic, but families must find new providers and reestablish themselves in unfamiliar communities.”
To address this challenge, DOCS Dental now operates 25 locations across the United States and one in Europe, allowing patients to transfer their care more seamlessly.
The Summer Smiles Initiative highlights simple but effective practices to protect dental health:
Stay Hydrated: Summer heat increases the body’s need for water, which also supports oral health. Adequate hydration helps prevent dry mouth and boosts saliva production, the body’s natural defense against cavities.
Make Water Fun for Kids: Encourage children to drink water instead of sugary beverages by using fruit infusions or personalized bottles.
Carry a Portable Dental Kit: A toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and floss can easily fit into a travel bag, ensuring good habits continue on trips or during field activities.
Wear a Mouthguard: For children and adults participating in summer sports, mouthguards are essential to prevent injuries and protect teeth during contact or high-impact activities.
Blakenship said the initiative is part of DOCS Dental’s broader effort to ensure families have reliable access to dental services and preventive care, no matter where they are stationed.
