Good eyesight, healthy teeth and gums contribute to our overall health. Never
neglect getting annual eye exams that measure your visual accuracy and dental
exams, and cleanings that detect cavities and gum disease. I’m always puzzled
to find these two vitally important health exams are either not paid for by some health
plans or receive at best minimal coverage.
It seems as if eye and dental care are considered
luxuries. That is far from the truth. Yet, it’s no secret that poor oral health contributes to
heart disease, diabetes and a weakened immune system, to name a few. According to the
Mayo Clinic, diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection — putting the gums at risk.
Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes.
Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their
blood sugar levels and that regular periodontal care can improve diabetes control.
In this edition of Our Health Matters, optometrist Dr. Wynter Rice encourages us to get
comprehensive eye exams to detect poor vision which could interfere with one’s ability to
drive safely, or contribute to a child’s poor performance in school. Pediatric dentist Dr. Brenda
Bohaty, reminds parents to start dental care as early as 12 months of age, or no later than 6
months after the eruption of the first tooth. Many of us ‘don’t know what we don’t know,’ so
let’s listen, learn and act to ensure that individuals and families benefit from better health.
Also in this edition, a dental implant patient shares her experience. Read about the
process she followed to get implants and an explanation on the costs associated with her
care and treatment.
After that amazing total eclipse we witnessed August 21st, let’s endeavor to stop anything
that prevents us from living healthier lives well into the future.
Be happy and healthy!
-Ruth Ramsey
Publisher and CEO
