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.
NO BONES ABOUT IT
Is your job a pain in the neck? If you work in a sedentary
environment, your response is probably yes. Musculoskeletal
pain is caused by excessive sitting throughout the day, leading
to slouching, hunching over, and muscles in your body going
without use for hours. Studies are finding that although a
regular workout routine helps, it won’t combat the constant
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