Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April 10, 2017

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and Stephens’ Dentistry would love to invite you in for a screening to prevent the disease. While smoking and alcohol are the biggest risk factors; a large segment of oral cancer patients are young, healthy, and nonsmoking individuals due to the prevalence of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The Center for Disease Control estimates that over 80% of the population will be affected by some strand of HPV. While 99% of these infections may be asymptomatic, there is a small chance a virus of this kind could result in oropharyngeal cancer.


Although they border each other, the oral cavity and oropharynx have different tissue and cell types that change how they are affected. The tissues of the floor of the mouth or the cheek can develop into very different types of cancer. These diseases could present themselves in swelling, change of color, numbness/loss of feeling, or difficulty chewing or swallowing.


VELscope®

At Stephens Dentistry we use the VELscope as an adjunctive device to our regular intraoral exam. The VELscope emits a blue light spectrum that normal, healthy tissue usually fluoresces under. Cells that are dead or dying do not emit the usual fluorescence, which appear black under the light and leads us to take a further look. If it is something common like a cheek bite or pizza burn, then we check it out and don’t give another thought. If we see anything that appears remotely suspicious under the VELscope, our first step is to take a picture of it and monitor it for several weeks. If the suspicious tissue either enlarges or changes color, than it would be a good time to have the tissue excised and biopsied.


Unfortunately the mortality rate associated with head and neck cancer is fairly high. Of the people newly diagnosed with the disease, only about 60% will liver longer than 5 years. If oral cancer is discovered early the 5 year survival rate jumps up to around 83%. However if the disease is discovered late (which it usually is), that 5 year survival rate drops to around 50%. The best defense is regular checkups and dentists that look for unhealthy changes in your tissue. Also it is very important to monitor your own oral health, particularly for changes in size or color of your tissue. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your soft tissue, please feel free to call us and come in for an exam.

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June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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