Buying Loupes for the First Time? Here’s Some Advice

Author
8/2/2017

Want to get things in amazing focus, avoid stooping over to see better, and stop squinting? Then it’s time to invest in dental loupes. Here are some guidelines, courtesy of Orascoptic, for picking out what's best for you if you’re just looking into purchasing them for the first time:

Choosing Your Style

Flip-Ups: The telescopes on these can be flipped up between tasks so you can see your surroundings without removing your glasses. The declination angle can be adjusted to what you need for sitting or standing.

Through-the-Lens (TTL): This style positions the telescopes closer to your eyes, which enlarges the field of view. Because they are fixed, the telescopes won’t need to be constantly adjusted. These are lighter in weight as well.

Through-the-Flip (TTF): This style combines the characteristics of aforementioned styles and can be further customized.

Magnification

Magnification is selected based on the types of procedures you’re doing. Lower magnification enables a wider view, and higher magnification offers greater details in smaller fields of view. Magnification makes a remarkable difference in esthetic and restorative procedures when performing minimally invasive dentistry. Magnification is also ideal for endodontics, periodontics, and microsurgery.

Field Width

It is recommended that first-time loupe buyers should use a larger field width until they get used to using instruments while looking through loupes.

Field Depth

This refers to the amount of depth that is in focus when you’re looking through loupes. Field depth lets you see farther into the area without having to reposition or adjust your posture.

Resolution

This is the perceived clarity of an image. High resolution translates to enhanced visual acuity, especially compared to using the naked eye. The image should be crisp from edge to edge, not fuzzy around the parameter.

Declination Angle

This is the degree to which your eyes are “declined” to view the treatment area. Declination angles can be customized based on patient positioning. The angle should ensure a neutral posture—no leaning or hunching forward.

Frame Options

The frame should support the weight and type of loupes you choose. If they bend or twist, it will distort the image. To ensure your comfort, consider frames that have adjustable nose pads, flexible hinges, and bendable temple tips for customizing the fit.

When the benefits of using magnification while performing dentistry include improved diagnosis, efficiency, quality of treatment, ergonomics, stamina, and productivity, what do you have to lose? To take a closer look at Orascoptics dental loupe options, click here.