The AOA’s 2015 American Eye-Q
survey stated 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 facilitate 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
a computer or tablet, then keep the
television and other devices off during
dinnertime and enjoy conversation
together. Optometrists also researched the
importance of natural sunlight exposure to
the eyes and say that a lack of exposure to
natural light could affect the growth and
development of vision.
Digital eyestrain symptoms
• Burning
• Itchy or tired
• Increased headaches
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Head and neck pain
Studies also suggest that poor oral
health is related to systemic diseases
including diabetes, oral cancer, stroke,
and heart disease. Routine visits to
your dentist can identify oral problems
before they become painful and more
serious. So how can you protect your
pearly whites against long-term health
concerns?
• Schedule routine checkups with your
dental professional.
• Brush your teeth twice a day.
• Floss daily (you may not see immediate
benefits, but you’ll be saving your gum
health in the long run).
Continued next page >
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
and tissue around your teeth.
MILLCREEK
❘
WINTER 2019
57