IN Brentwood-Baldwin-Whitehall Winter 2017 | Page 21

HEALTH & WELLNESS
SPEC IA L SECTION
SEEING INTO THE FUTURE
Twenty-first century children will be looking beyond genetics as
a cause for needing corrective eyewear, according to the American
Optometric Association (AOA). In the Digital Age, children are exposed
to electronic devices their whole lives as an integral part of social and
educational practices. Teachers are continuing to increase the amount of
digital technology used in the classroom, and it is expected that computer
simulations will account for much of the learning style in the future. Both
teachers and parents are finding that children are adapting well to the use
of technology in the classroom, making learning more interactive and
current than most textbook learning.
The AOA’s 2015 American Eye-Q® survey states that 41 percent of
parents say their kids spend three or more hours per day using digital
devices, and 66 percent of kids have their own smartphone or tablet.
As technology becomes more of an essential part of modern life, it is
important for parents to find balance in their children’s digital usage.
Electronic devices, including televisions, give off blue and violet light that
may affect vision by causing eyestrain and discomfort. If your child has to
do homework using the computer or tablet, keep the television off during
dinnertime and instead enjoy conversation together. Optometrists also
researched the importance of natural sunlight exposure to the eyes and
say that the lack of exposure to natural light could affect the growth and
development of vision.
DIGITAL EYESTRAIN
• Burning
• Fatigue
• Itchy or tired
• Blurry vision
• Head and neck pain
• Increased headaches
The best way to properly monitor eye and vision health is to make sure
your child gets a comprehensive eye exam every year.
KEEP YOUR TEETH & GUMS HEALTHY
A big smile can say a lot about your overall health, so if you’ve been
skipping out on the dentist, you may want to schedule your visit. A yearly
dental visit protects against poor oral health that can lead to greater
problems down the road. Good oral hygiene, including brushing at least
twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing, can protect against
the damaging effects of gum disease. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum
disease that is due to plaque and tartar buildup on teeth, leaving gums
red, swollen, and irritated. When left untreated, gingivitis can advance to
periodontitis. A more serious and painful disease, periodontitis causes
gums to pull away from teeth, allowing bacteria to build in the pockets
between. Due to the infection and inflammation, your body’s natural
reaction is to fight the bacteria, which can lead to breakdown of the bones
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