SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION:
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 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
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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
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.
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.
Continued on next page >
MONROEVILLE
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WINTER 2019
27