Product Evaluation

With countless technological advancements in recent years, one would think that tangled cords and heavy batteries would be problems of the past, especially in dentistry. For a clinician, it can be frustrating to have tangled cords slowing down procedures while a headlight places irritating pressure on the nose.

As a dentist who’s been wearing loupes with an attached headlight for years, Dr. Robert Milner has experienced these problems time and time again. However, once he tried the Omega Pro Headlight from Ultralight Optics, the burden of tangled cords, disrupted procedures, and uncomfortable nose pressure is nothing but a memory.

Omega Pro features an innovative design where the battery’s weight is located on the neck and shoulders, rather than on the nose like some other cordless batteries. A short cord hangs behind the head and connects magnetically to the battery pack, and on/off buttons are operated by the chin, allowing for hands-free operation.

“Ultralight designed Omega Pro’s battery pack to rest on the shoulders, and it does not have long cables connecting to a remote battery supply,” explained Dr. Milner. Because of that design, his previous issues with twisted cords are now “nonexistent,” and he “has a positive connection between the battery and light every time.” He believes the light’s unique design will be especially beneficial to clinicians who wear headlights. In fact, he said, “The battery pack is so light I found myself several times leaving the office with the unit still on my shoulders.”

Ergonomics and Cordless Design

“Omega Pro helped alleviate weight from the nose and distribute it to the neck,” shared Dr. Sandip Ladani. “The best part was the neck battery pack; you do not even feel that it is there,” he added. Dr. Hana Rashid agreed, stating, “I was shocked by how weightless it felt on my neck. The cord was not really noticeable once it was plugged in and working.”

Featuring a short, magnetic cord that attaches to the battery pack, Omega Pro frees clinicians from a long, tangled cord. “With Omega Pro, I enjoyed the benefits of using my loupes without the hassle of a cord,” shared Samantha Cosgrove, RDH. While some clinicians reported a learning curve with the Omega Pro’s short cord, Dr. Rashid pointed out, “It’s not a problem; habits can be broken.”

Battery Life

“The battery pack lasted much longer than my [other brand],” Dr. Rick Adelstein shared, which means less time swapping out batteries and improved workflow. With Omega Pro, Dr. Rashid said, “I was able to see clearly and did not have to get up once to change my battery, as it lasted all day. My assistant was shocked I was still on the same battery that I started my day with.” Dr. Daniel Florian noted, “For doctors who don’t like the cord, it’s a good alternative with a battery that lasts all day.”

Charging is “effortless and easy to achieve” with a USB-C charger, said Dr. Milner. While Tara Cabral, RDH, “would love to see a visible battery indicator,” Dr. Steven Berwitz called the battery life “far superior to other units I have used.”

Chin Activation and Illumination

Featuring a chin-activated on/off button, Omega Pro is completely hands free for hygienic operation. This is great news for Dr. Dmitriy Yarovitsky, who was pleased that “the well-made button on the battery is accessible by chin.” Dr. Rashid agreed, stating, “I like the hands-free on/off and intensity buttons and the magnetic disconnect to take the loupes off easily.” Appreciating the hygienic hands-free operation, Dr. Milner shared, “The activation switch for the light can be used through the surgical scrubs, minimizing cross-contamination.”

With a light intensity of 50,000 lux, Omega Pro provides quality illumination without compromising clarity. “I believe this product is an excellent light source compared to some other battery/cordless units on the market,” Dr. Berwitz declared. “The light works well, and the ability to increase and decrease brightness with the chin-activated triggers assists with the ease of the product.” Explaining that “Omega Pro makes my work much easier because I can see what I’m doing even in the back of the mouth,” Dr. Florian declared, “This light is a must in all the cases I do. I can’t work without it!”

Overall Satisfaction

“Omega Pro is great for wearing loupes all day. The cord does not get in the way, making it easier to take my loupes on and off throughout the day,” Dr. Yarovitsky proclaimed. Eager to add Omega Pro to his armamentarium, Dr. Berwitz concluded, “The illumination was amazing, and the ability to control brightness and intensity modes makes this a great light.”