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 >
West Mifflin | Winter 2017 | icmags.com 29