HEALTH & WELLNESS
SPEC IA L SECTION
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
• Increased headaches
• 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.
• Floss daily (you may not see immediate benefits, but you’ll be saving your gum health
in the long run).
• Eat a balanced diet to get the proper nutrients your teeth and gums need to stay
strong.
• Drink lots of water!
• Quit smoking; it is one of the most significant risk factors in developing gum disease.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months.
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