We have a new Patient Portal!

Join our patient portal to receive these benefits:

·      Check upcoming appointments online

·      Request an appointment by text or email

·      View your balance, payments and treatment online

·      Make secure payments online

·      Receive email or text messages regarding appointment confirmations, treatment Plans, follow-up instructions and correspondence

·      Write a review of our office

·      Refer a friend for a $50 discount

Visit our website www.stephensondds.com to access our portal

Celebrate Healthy Hearts

February is American Heart Month! Recent studies suggest there may be a link between oral health and cardiovascular health. Celebrate heart month by creating a health plan that includes regular visits to Dr. Bob for a check-up and cleaning and making sure you complete all recommended treatment. 

Other ways to take care of your heart include:

Eat a healthy diet. Choosing healthful meal and snack options can help you avoid heart disease and its complications. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables—adults should have at least 5 servings each day. Eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol and high in fiber can help prevent high cholesterol.

Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for heart disease.

Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure. The Surgeon General recommends that adults should engage in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. 

Monitor your blood pressure. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so be sure to have it checked on a regular basis. You can check your blood pressure at home, at a pharmacy, or at a doctor's office.

Don't smoke. Cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for heart disease. If you don't smoke, don't start. If you do smoke, quit as soon as possible. Your doctor can suggest ways to help you quit.

Limit alcohol use. Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can increase your blood pressure. Men should stick to no more than two drinks per day, and women to no more than one.

Have your cholesterol checked. Your health care provider should test your cholesterol levels at least once every 5 years. Talk with your doctor about this simple blood test.

Manage your diabetes. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely, and talk with your doctor about treatment options.

Take your medicine. If you're taking medication to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don't understand something.