While many professions could benefit from having a third hand, that extra hand would come in particularly handy for dental professionals who are frequently trying to juggle multiple tasks and devices at the same time. While using 2 hands for patient treatment, that illusive third hand could perform a host of tasks —including turning a headlight on and off, managing the light’s battery, and wrangling the inevitable tangle of wires and cords.
LumaDent’s latest technology introduces the waveLUX headlight, which provides up to 50,000 LUX with a hands-free design that, ironically, provides some of those “extra hand” benefits. This headlight’s innovative, modular, and future-proof design starts with the wave feature, which turns the light on and off with a simple touch-free wave of the hand. The innovations continue with a battery/control box that sits securely on the shoulder with a magnetic connection and a semi-wireless design that eliminates snags.
The hands-free technology is a favorite of hygienist Joy Ogami Avila, who said, “Being able to easily turn the headlight on and off does a great job of minimizing glove changes.” And throughout her day, “not having such a long cord is nice for preventing it from getting caught in things.” After hearing about the “very long-lasting and depend-able” waveLUX battery, Avila was anxious to put it to the test and discovered, “So far, the battery life is stellar!” Dr. Craig Aebli agreed with Avila on all accounts and declared, “I use it for every patient, and I would not work without it.”
Design Innovations
The waveLUX gives users the option of on/off control with the touch of a button or touch-free control for effortless operation and enhanced infection control. Its semi-wireless design eliminates long hanging wires, and the headlight is compatible with all loupes, glasses, goggles, and shields.
“I just have to wave my hand over it, and it turns on or off,” said dental assistant and dental hygiene student Yasmeen Sierra, who said using waveLUX reduces the risk of cross-contamination and called it “convenient to not have a long wire.” The hands-free feature was also a favorite of hygienist Deborah Hirons, who is pleased about not having to touch the button on her glasses. On the other hand, hygienist Nicole Shellenberger said the waveLUX is “ultra-sensitive to motion,” and Dr. Anthony Le noted that it “turns on and off randomly.”
With a previous headlight that would “always get caught on the chair,” Dr. Priya Sabharwal appreciates that “this product has a short wire and is attached to my shirt while working, which allows for more movement and flexibility while completing treatment.” Similarly, Shellenberger noted, “I like the shoulder battery/short cord and that I don’t have to fish the cord under my shirt.” Dr. Le said, “Since the battery is attached to your shoulder, the cord length is noticeably reduced.”
For Avila, the weight of the battery on the shoulder sometimes pulls on her top or gown, but she praised the light’s functionality. “The buttons and knobs are located in a practical design. I like the quality of the product and that it attempts to make our lives easier and more efficient with its new technology.”
Brightness & Battery Life
The waveLUX provides up to 50,000 LUX circular beam light with even edge-to-edge brightness. “The light output is excellent and powerful enough to replace the overhead light,” Dr. Le said. Avila noted, “The light illuminates well,” and Sierra reported, “The brightness is amazing.” Naming the light’s “ease of use and bright light” as his favorite features, Dr. Aebli also likes that it fits to his existing loupes.
Battery power lasts for up to 12 hours per charge, and an extra battery is included to ensure that the headlight is always ready for continuous, uninterrupted use. “This light has an excellent battery that lasts all day,” shared Dr. Le. “The battery provides great functionality, and anyone looking for a long-lasting light will appreciate this battery,” said Avila. Although she likes the backup battery, she said, “I will not likely have to use it because of the excellent life of each battery.”
User Comfort
waveLUX’s highly functional design and light weight of only 5 grams maximizes user comfort, and Dr. Reem Mahjoub “appreciated the sleek design.” After previously working with a heavy headlight, Dr. Sabharwal was happy to find a light that is “lightweight and convenient,” and Dr. Le declared, “The weight savings are worth every penny.” After using the waveLUX headlight, Shellenberger “noticed that my posture has improved overall, and not just while working.”
