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Utilising loupes in dentistry has extensive scientific support. The human eye cannot perceive the full level of detail that loupe optics transmit. Magnification has become one of the most important factors in dental performance, with many options available. Other factors will be the ergonomic declination angle to support safe neck postures and features of frames to allow balanced declination angles. Magnification is also related to standing height, length of arms and length of torso while seated.
In Australia, magnification is now standard practice. Some advantages are efficiency, improved ergonomics with less fatigue, and improved outcomes of minimally invasive surgery.
Ozdent is the exclusive distributor for the UNIVET (Italy) Loupes Spa in Australia. Univet, founded in 1977, was the first pioneer in manufacturing magnification loupes. Univet is unique – it designs and manufactures “in-house” not just the highly specialised optical systems but also the quality frames specifically for loupes, ensuring a perfect weight distribution. The ability to combine style, quality, and Italian design with innovative technology has made Univet the leader in its field.
Loupes come in several magnifications depending on the work undertaken and individual user’s preferences. A key consideration when choosing the power of loupes is that as magnification increases, the width and depth of view decrease by about 5-10mm for each increment. The highest level gives the greatest detail but reduces depth and field of view. In addition, the amount of light coming through the lens decreases, thereby making the field of view darker. The lowest magnification level will give you less detail but greater depth and field of view. Magnification is also related to standing height, length of arms and length of torso while seated.
Galilean loupes are both compact and lightweight, offering a broad field of view and excellent depth of field. Magnification is from 2.0X up to 3.5X with reduced focal distances. UNIVET has a Proprietary System – PRO HD Optics – which increases the resolution of an image while also increasing the brightness of the optical system.
Prismatic loupes work with higher magnification than Galilean and are characterised by high customisation, i.e., interpupillary distance, working distance, and declination angle. The visual field is smaller, with greater clarity and more visual details. Prismatic loupes have a magnification range from 3.5 – 6.0.
Compared with conventional loupes, ergonomic loupes use higher magnification for essentially the same level of image enhancement because sitting upright leaves practitioners farther away from patients. The working distance will increase by about 90mm due to having an upright position. If your current working distance is 400mm, your new working distance with an ergonomic pair of loupes will be 450mm. The increase in your working distance will be 20%, therefore, you should consider loupes with at least 20% more magnification power. Univet ERGO Advanced loupes come in 3.5, 4.5 and 5.7 magnification.
In recent years, ERGO loupes have evolved, resulting in new technologies and more variety. With the advent of ERGO Advanced technology, Univet Loupes Spa works closely with ergonomic specialists to improve posture. Univet now offers ERGO Advanced loupes with up to 22% more declination angle.
ERGO Advanced Loupes
The majority of loupes are sold with a prescription, so measurements of inter-pupillary distance and working distance, along with an optometrist’s prescription, are required by Univet to customise each pair of loupes.
Loupes are now viewed by most dental professionals as indispensable tools for routine dental and surgical work, facilitating daily practice and making it more predictable.
To obtain more information on the various loupes and magnifications available, contact sales@ozdent.com
