Factors to consider when choosing the best loupes for dentistry

Factors to consider when choosing the

best loupes for dentistry

Dentist loupes are known for the many benefits it offers to the dentists, dental

hygienists, and other dental professionals. However, you can only enjoy these benefits

if you pick the right ergonomically designed loupes. In order to pick the best loupes

for dentistry, you need to consider factors like the magnification power, working

distance, loupe style, weight, declination angle, and more.

One of the most important precision instruments that dentists, hygienists, and dental

professionals use in practicing dentistry is the magnification loupe. Dental loupes

allow dentists to see the oral cavity more clearly and closely, making it possible for

them to deliver higher quality dental care. Dentist loupes also enhance the user’s

visual acuity which greatly helps in reducing risks of misdiagnosis and treatment

errors. They likewise allow better posture when working, thus, reducing the user’s

risks to a number of musculoskeletal pains including neck fatigue, shoulder stress, and

back pain.

Dental loupes surely offer many advantages. However, the number of benefits you

can get out of using the optical magnification loupes is rather limited if you fail to

pick the right one for you. Here are a few factors that can help you find the best

loupes for dentistry.

Magnification Power

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Dentists loupes are not created equal. They are available in different styles, types,

frame color, measurements, and magnification power. The magnification power of

dental magnifying loupes ranges from 2.5.x to 6.0x.

It is important that you know how and where you will use the dental loupes in order to

pick the right magnification power. If you intend to use the loupes for general

dentistry, a 2.5x magnification is enough for you. However, if you plan to use it for

more complicated dental procedures that require more power and higher levels of

precision, you can opt for 4.0x or higher magnification.

Working Distance

The working distance is the measurement of the distance between your eyes and your

patient’s oral cavity. The right working distance will allow you to work in an upright

and neutral position (both sitting and standing positions) and enables you to see the

region you are working on clearly and closely even without leaning forward towards

your patient’s mouth.

Taking your working distance is quite easy. You just need a measuring tape. Put one

end of the tape on the upper bridge of your nose and the other end of the mouth of

your patient. Take the measurement and that’s it.

Weight

The weight is a critical factor that you need to take a closer look at. As much as

possible, pick the Schultz loupe with the lightest weight. The weight, no matter how

light it is, can build up over time most especially if you use the loupe all day long.

When the weight starts to build up, it can affect your comfort and focus and it can as

well lead to strains on your neck and nose bridge. Smart dentists pick a pair of dental

loupes that is very light and portable.

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Declination Angle

Choose the dentist loupes that allow you to tilt your head downward in less than 20°.

The declination angle is the downward slope or the degree to which your head is tilted

downward to see the operating site. Working with loupes with an angle of declination

that is more than 20° for an extended period of time can be harmful to your eyes, nose

bridge, shoulder, and neck.

Aside from the factors stated above, you also need to consider the field of view, depth

of field, quality of the optics, and the quality of the carrier lens. You also need to

decide whether or not you will go for the flip-up loupes or the through the lens loupes.