What type( magnification/ focal distance/ with or without light source) of a dental loupe is needed for beginners?
The main benefit in using loupes is that they enlarge the image allowing the clinician to observe structures not easily visible to the naked eye. Practically, magnification allows better precision e.g. during crown preparation, or caries removal. Magnification between 2.0 and 6.0 X are routinely available. The level of magnification depends upon the type of procedure being undertaken. For general dental procedures, 2.5 to 3.5 X magnifications are usually sufficient; whilst for periodontal plastic surgery, crown and bridgework and endodontics higher magnifications of 4.5X and 6.0 X may be desired.
Hi sir
Go with 2.5X if you are a novice to loupe, if you go for the higher magnification at the start you may not be comfortable.
the working distance , and depth of the field depends on the type of loupe , your arm length, iris-iris distance.
I f possible go for TTL[through the lens] rather than flip type, as TLC can customize to your vision.
Go with light source.
Using Loupe is more ergonomic, better field of vision.
Whatever brand/type of loupe you have to get used initially
This may be interest to you
http://thedentalstudent.co.uk/a-guide-to-dental-loupes-part-1-the-basics/
http://thedentalstudent.co.uk/a-students-guide-to-dental-loupes-part-2-brands-and-specifications/
Hope this is helpful
Murali
BTW. have started using magnification very early in my career, in the late 80s and switched to DOM as early as Dr.Carr gave his first lecture in Frankfurt at the beginning of the 90s.
Have realised one side effect of using magnification in my professional life...the brain starts tp magnify any information, data, event, picture, emotion one is cnfronted with.
Meaning? Importance and consideration is alocated to issues other may not be bothered with. Yes, general perception changes....magnification turns into a modus vivendi!
....and remember....a coin has two sides!
Hi Deepak,
I totally agree with all previous replies. I just would like to add that good illumination also is important. Halogen/LED/XHL light sources are helpful. A 2.5-3.5X loupes (I prefer Heine, Germany) with a light source is my choice for RCT.
For prosthetic procedures, I guess a reasonable magnification aided with the light from the chair unit would be sufficient.
Nice article, Liviu. Thanks for sharing.
Cheers,
HMA Ahmed.
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