IN Peters Township December 2019/January 2020 | Page 61

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION:
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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
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
Think Summer!
Give your teeth that
summer shine !
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.
• Floss daily (you may not see
immediate benefits, but you’ll
412-835-4887
Call Today !!
Continued on page 61 >
PETERS TOWNSHIP
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DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020
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