I Finally Saw the Light

Let's face it, as dentists we work in a small, confined and dark environment doing very detailed work. In order to do so, it's important to clearly see what we're doing. This often involves us using powerful overhead lights and magnification to help us see things so that we can provide the very best care for our patients.

If we can't see clearly or if it's too dark, we have to reposition the patient, our light, head, posture, assistants, mirrors and the list goes on. If we can't see properly, not only does it take more time, but it can also wreak havoc on us physically.

To say the least, I'm a fanatic when it comes to seeing better: I have two microscopes and magnifying loupes. I thought I had everything I needed to be efficient and to provide the very best care. That was before I tried out my latest addition, a headlight for my loupes, see the article “I Can See Clearly Now”. After looking and talking to a friend of mine, I decided to add one more thing to my armamentarium for patient care.

At first I was leery of having one more thing on my side and another hanging off of my head, but now after using it for the past six months, I can say that I should have done it sooner. Why? I find myself and my assistant having to readjust a lot less because of poor lighting. My procedures are going quicker than before because of less movement and I can focus on the task at hand.

So, if you want to provide quicker and more efficient care that is better for you, your assistant and your patient, you may want to look into adding one of these to your office.

Jeff Lineberry DDS, Visiting Faculty, Spear Education. [ www.jefflineberrydds.com ]