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Prep for implant crown and bridge

This video was taken using the L.A. Lens MiniCam HD loupe-mounted video camera, with a 4x zoom lens.

#Video Dentistry #dentist #dental camera #dentistry #implant dentistry #MiniCam HD

We had been using an intraoral camera for over 15 years and recently switched to the L.A. Lens MiniCam HD in 2015. The change was so radical that we now call our videos "First Person Dentistry". Now the first thing we are asked in every single lecture we give is, "How was this recorded?". The quality of the videos is such that we are able to review videos in order to improve our diagnosis, techniques, and the correlation with clinical success. It has also helped us to change the way we do treatment planning and improve the way we relate to our patients and colleagues. We could not be happier.

Testimonial from Dr. Alejandro Berg (Santiago, Chile):

Video Dentistry Made Easy

Advancements in technology have made video dentistry now more accessible than ever before. While many dental practitioners have become accustomed to relying on still images and written text to convey information, products like the MiniCam HD allow this information to be more effectively and efficiently communicated through video.

Up until recent years, the technology to capture video in dental practices has either been too low of a resolution, too expensive, or located at an angle that did not reflect the dentist’s perspective. The MiniCam HD overcomes these issues, having been designed to capture exactly what dental practitioners see through their loupes, in high definition. Because the camera is both head-mounted and operated by a foot pedal, video recording seamlessly integrates into the dentist’s working day. Photos can also be taken using the foot pedal, allowing for an effortless, hands-free experience. It is this ease of use that will propel the next generation of video into dentistry.

Because the MiniCam HD allows us to see through the eyes of the user, it is easy to tailor oral healthcare guides to each individual client, as well as show treatment recommendations and share videos with patients, colleagues, and specialists. The MiniCam HD enables the user to identify, record, and reflect on treatments, providing another dimension that will improve communication in dental practices. Additionally, all videos can be linked into practice management software for ease of access.

Above you can see the quality of MiniCam HD videos, as well an example of snapshots below that can be taken to highlight key steps during each procedure.

The L.A. Lens Team

#Video Dentistry #dental camera #Loupe Mounted Camera #HD Loupe-Mounted Camera #surgical camera #la-lens

What Should I Look For When I Buy Loupes?

One of the main benefits of purchasing products online is the ability to easily and conveniently comparison shop. In regards to dental and surgical loupes, there are a number of brands offering very similar products and consumers are often left wondering why they should choose one brand’s loupes over another.

In this blog post, we hope to clarify a) the key features to look for in a pair of loupes, and b) why L.A. Lens should be your go-to loupe brand.

The main purpose of loupes is to provide magnification to medical and dental practitioners who engage in work that requires great precision. Loupes are meant to allow for a higher level of accuracy and focus than what can be done with the naked eye. In order to obtain this higher level of accuracy and focus, loupes must satisfy the following criteria:

Effective magnification— Provide the necessary close-up view to account for the level of detail required for the job. L.A. Lens provides 3 different levels of magnification to cater for this- 2.5x, 3.3x, and 4.0x. It is important to note that users’ needs depend on their preference and focus of work.

Depth-of-field— A large depth-of-field is necessary for a focused, magnified view. The depth-of-field dictates the range a user’s loupes will remain in focus while he or she works. At L.A. Lens, we understand the importance of this and it is why we specialize in providing loupes with an exceptional depth-of-field of up to 6 inches, while most brands only provide 3-5 inches depth-of-field.

Field-of-view— This is the diameter of the magnified circular view seen through loupes. A wide field-of-view is key because it means users will have a greater amount of their subject area in focus, magnified, and visible. The picture below depicts L.A. Lens wide field-of-view in comparison to the narrower field-of-view which is often found in other brands of loupes. As seen in the image below, L.A. Lens provides the widest possible field in order to allow users to see the largest possible area in magnified focus.

Clarity/ Distortion-free—When you are working with magnified precision, the slightest distortion can result in an inaccurate view of the object in front of you and will essentially eliminate the purpose of loupes all-together. At L.A. Lens, we took this into account when creating our high-definition surgical loupes and it resulted in loupes that provide edge-to-edge clarity and distortion-free optics.

When doing your research, always keep in mind: magnification, depth-of-field, field-of-view, and clarity. We hope this information helps to narrow down your choice when purchasing your next pair of loupes and don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions!

The L.A. Lens Team

#Dental Loupes #Flip Up Loupes #Surgical Loupes #dental products #L.A.Lens

Choosing Between TTL and Flip Up Loupes

At LA Lens, we understand that choosing between TTL and Flip-Up Loupes is a dilemma dental and medical practitioners often encounter when purchasing loupes. The question is usually directed at us, with prospective clients wondering, ‘Which loupes do think I should get?’. Because this is a decision based on personal preference and prioritizing your specific needs, we understand that it is not the easiest decision to make. However, we thought we would try to help by providing you with a decision making structure - listing the pros and cons for each category of loupes, which will hopefully enable you to choose the right type of loupes for your everyday needs.

TTL Loupes - Through-the-Lens Loupes

TTL Loupes are also often referred to as ‘front-mounted loupes’. This is because the optical barrels are mounted into the carrier lens of the loupes, based on personal Pupillary Distance measurements. They are fixed at the steepest angle of declination possible to allow the user to attain the most ergonomic posture achievable. Since the Mid-2000’s, TTL Loupes have become the most popular type of loupes on the market, especially with Dental Schools now adopting them as the new standard of practice.

Advantages of TTL Loupes:

1. Fully customized to the user

These loupes are custom-made to fit each individual perfectly. Catering for personal PD measurements and working distance measurements, TTL Loupes also provide the best possible ergonomic position for user, with no adjustments necessary.

2. A wider field of view

TTL Loupes offer a ‘wider field of view’ through the magnified optical barrels. The reason for this is because the optical barrels are closer to the user’s eyes, which means users are able to see a larger area of focus than they would with the same magnification in a Flip-Up Loupe.

3. Lighter weight

TTL Loupes weigh less than their Flip Up Loupe counter part. This is because users do not have the added weight of the Flip-Up hinge on the TTL. Additionally, the barrels do not protrude out as far, meaning users do not have to rebalance the weight using their neck muscles. This is key when users take into account the amount of time they plan on wearing their loupes each day. It is also the reason TTL loupes are considered more comfortable than any other type of loupe.

4. Prescriptions can be placed in the barrels and the carrier lens

TTL Loupes can accept users’ reading prescriptions in the optical barrels, allowing users to see in perfect focus when working. In TTL Loupes users are also able to place their distance prescription in the carrier lens, enabling them to see the rest of the room in perfect focus as well.

Disadvantages of TTL Loupes:

1. Higher price

TTL Loupes’ retail price is higher than that of Flip-Up Loupes. This is due to the customization process involved creating TTL Loupes for each individual user, such drilling the barrels.

2. Personalized – only for one individual

TTL Loupes are customized to the extent that users will not be able to share their loupes with other colleagues. Each user will have a different PD measurement, which means the barrels will not be placed in the right position if the loupes were not made specifically for them.

3. Modifications

If the user requires a change in their prescription, he or she will need to send their loupes back to the manufacturer for the modification. With L.A. Lens’ Titanium Flip-Up loupes, users can take their loupes directly to their optometrist every time they need to change their prescription.

4. The optical barrels are fixed in place

The Optical barrels are fixed in place, which means users are unable to flip them up when talking to a patient or dealing with paper work. TTL Loupes need to be taken off, whereas, the hinge mechanism in Flip Up Loupes allow the loupes to be flipped up and out of sight.

Flip Up Loupes

Flip Up Loupes have optical magnification barrels mounted on a hinge mechanism just above the bridge of the nose on a pair of glasses. These loupes flip down in front of the carrier lens. They are called “flip-ups’ as they can be flipped up out of sight using the hinge mechanism, once users have finished working with them. These loupes are very popular as they offer an adjustable angle of declination and an adjustable pupillary distance.

Advantage of Flip Up Loupes:

1. Lower price

Flip Up Loupes cost less than TTL Loupes because there is less of a customization involved in creating them.

2. Cater to multiple people

The pupillary distance is manually adjusted for Flip Up Loupes, enabling multiple people to use one pair. However, it is important to note that the working distance cannot be changed, which means that if two colleagues have varying working distance measurements (ex: 17 inches vs. 19 inches), the loupes will not be a perfect fit for both users.

3. Can be flipped up out of sight

This is a significant advantage to using Flip-Up Loupes in everyday practice. Users are able to flip the optical barrels up and out of the way when they are talking to the patient, enabling direct eye contact. Additionally, the user can flip up the barrels when doing paperwork or other tasks that do not require magnification. This key advantage makes Flip-Up Loupes a convenient addition to a typical working day.

4. Prescriptions can be changed easily in the carrier lens

Because there is no prescription placed in the optical magnification barrels, it is cheaper, quicker, and easier to change the user’s prescription. With the L.A Lens Titanium range, for example, users are able take their loupes to their local optometrist each time their prescription changes.

5. Greater angle of declination

Flip Up Loupes allow users to customize the angle of declination. Because the distance of the barrels from the users eyes is further, it is enables the angle of declination to be increased - allowing for a more upright, ergonomic posture when practicing.

Disadvantages of Flip Up Loupes:

1. Heavier than TTL Loupes

Flip Up loupes are noticeably heavier than TTL Loupes due to the added hinge on the loupes. Additionally, the optical barrels protrude out further, creating a more uneven weight balance. Because of this, one’s neck muscles need to compensate more when practicing.

2. Narrower field of view

The optical barrels are further away from user’s eyes than they are in TTL Loupes, as the barrels are on the other side of the carrier lens and not drilled through the carrier lens. This results in a narrower field of view, which means users are able to see less of their subject area when working.

3. Angle of declination is adjustable

While this can be an advantage to Flip-Up Loupes because it allows users to manually adjust the optical barrels to an optimal position of declination, it can also be a disadvantage because the barrels have the ability to be knocked out of position. This is occasionally inconvenient, as the user would need to re-adjust the position of the barrels.

After reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of TTL Loupes and Flip-Up Loupes, it is key to identify which advantages are most vital to you. Doing so will help you pick the best type of loupes for your everyday needs. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us directly and we will be happy to help you come to a decision.

The L.A. Lens Team

#Dental Loupes #Flip Up Loupes #Surgical Loupes #TTL Loupes #L.A.Lens #dental products

Loupe-Mounted Cameras Represent The Future Of Dental Video Communication

As advancements in dental video technology are made, dental practitioners are able to choose from a variety of video and imaging options that are easier to use and more patient friendly than ever before. By adopting the latest video technology, dentists and dental hygienists can deliver an enhanced level of treatment and improve practice efficiency and growth.

The latest development in dental video technology comes in the form of a hands-free HD camera that attaches to loupes in order to help dental practitioners capture exactly what they see. Considered to be the next evolution of the intraoral camera, loupe-mounted cameras allow users to capture everything they see without interrupting their work.

To get to the point where loupe-mounted cameras could be a viable option for dental practices, technology had to come a long way. When the first intraoral camera was invented in 1987, not only did it cost $35,000, the images it produced were analog and had to be stored on floppy disks. The first few years after they were introduced, they achieved a market penetration of just a few percent, but now this number has quickly expanded to over 80% adoption due to the fact they are easier to use, more affordable, and lighter weight.

Despite their vast improvement, intraoral cameras still possess a number of drawbacks. One of their biggest flaws is that users must stop what they are doing to maneuver the camera and find the correct angle for the desired image. Additionally, dentists and dental hygienists must sterilize or re-cover the camera in between each patient.

Image quality is another complaint often associated with intraoral cameras, leading dental practitioners to opt for digital cameras instead. While digital cameras allow for HD resolution and exchangeable optics, they are still inconvenient for users who must stop what they are doing to operate the camera with both hands, then transfer the files to their computer. Additionally, digital cameras do not allow for live previewing during treatments.

Lightweight, loupe-mounted cameras represent the future in technological capability- both in terms of quality and functionality. By attaching the camera to loupes and headbands, operating the camera becomes effortless and the need for disinfecting vanishes. Additionally, video streams passively throughout procedures via a USB cord, diminishing the need for uploading.

The quality level loupe-mounted cameras offer is another major advancement for dental video and imaging technology. HD versions of loupe-mounted cameras provide users with both HD images and videos, as well as up to an 8 inch depth of field. With this level of resolution, videos are useful to clinicians and insurers.

With the amount of competition today, dental practices are held to a standard of care like never before. Practices are expected to provide excellent care for patients according to the available technology. Loupe-mounted cameras represent the future in communicating with patients. HD video creates a new and compelling way to show patient’s exactly what the dentist wants them to see.

One version of the loupe-mounted camera, from Los Angeles based L.A. Lens, has made significant advancements in not only the camera hardware, but the recording software as well. With L.A. Lens’ MiniCam HD, users are able to control recording and still HD images using a foot pedal. The videos and stills are streamed and stored on computers, requiring no extra time for editing, encoding, and uploading. Additionally, audio is recorded throughout the procedure, making documentation easy.

The MiniCam HD also comes with a private cloud system allowing users to share and access their videos wherever they are, using any device (including smartphones and tablets). Similar to YouTube links, video links can be sent in an email, which can then be shared with patients, specialists, technicians, and insurers.

By enabling dentists and hygienists to send personalized videos directly to the patient’s home, patients are more likely to appreciate what has been done for them and will be more willing to accept treatment recommendations. Additionally, the ability to capture clear images and transfer them throughout the office creates a critical link between front office administration and the dental operatories.

Dental video communication has come a long way and continues to evolve daily. Loupe-mounted cameras represent the new generation of dental video communication and documentation and give dental practitioners the ability to create a multitude of new service possibilities with improved quality of care.

The L.A. Lens Team

#dental camera #HD Loupe-Mounted Camera #dental products #L.A.Lens

Which Type of LED Surgical/Dental Headlight Should I Purchase?

Purchasing a new LED headlight can be tricky business and, at L.A. Lens, we appreciate that. It’s for this reason we thought it would be a good idea to put an informative blog post together to help you make the right decision for you.

The first question is - why a LED headlight?

Color of the beam

When performing proceedures, it is essential to have the right type of lighting. A pure white LED headlight is recognized as the best light source to use for the level of detail required when practicing dentistry or surgery. This is because a pure white LED is 6000k+ and resembles daylight, allowing you to illuminate your area of focus while representing ‘true color’. Illumination in ‘true color’ means you will be able to identify the accurate color of the object in front of you without any color distortion.

Unfortunately, many LED headlights on the market display a blue beam, rather than a pure white beam. This blue beam will result in severe color distortion and is most commonly found in very inexpensive LED lights.

The second reason for using a LED light is because LED’s are considered the most energy-efficient light sources available – producing maximum foot-candles while using minimal energy. For a portable light source, this is key in ensuring the battery will not die halfway through your average work day. The L.A. Lens Starlight Mini headlight is a LED light, for example, and will last 8 hours plus - on high intensity - making it extremely practical and energy efficient.

What Intensity do I need: 45,000 Lux or 90,000 Lux?

While light is necessary for every medical or dental professional, the level of light intensity is entirely based on personal preference. Whether the intensity is 45,000 lux or 90,000 lux, a LED light will bring out a higher level of detail which would not have otherwise been seen. Additionally, a LED headlight will remove all shadows from the focus area, thereby increasing your sharpness of vision.

After extensive testing, we have found that the light intensity of a LED headlight should be over 40,000 lux to thoroughly improve the quality of your working experience and allow you to see every detail in your field of view. It is for this reason we created LED headlights ranging from 45,000 lux to 90,000 lux.

Take notice of the lux (light intensity) when comparison shopping, as the case is often the cheaper the light, the lower the lux.

Why do I need a Uniformed Focused Beam?

L.A. Lens provides specialized LED headlights which provide uniformed, focused beams. Uniformed, focused beams are extremely important because of the distortion free image they provide. When a light does not provide a uniformed, focused beam, one part of the beam will be more prominent than another, resulting in an image with distorted proportions and causing eye strain.

Does the Weight of the Light Matter?

The quick answer is yes. A portable LED headlight is deigned to sit on your loupes, which rest on the bridge of your nose. If you are working for long periods of time, the pressure on the bridge of your nose can build up and make you extremely uncomfortable. This will often result in your inability to continue working. This is why L.A. Lens has produced the Starlight Mini LED Headlight, which is one of the lightest weight LED headlights on the market. Weighing only 4 grams, the Starlight Mini Headlight allows you to work all day in comfort.

However, some medical and dental practitioners require higher illumination for their work. If this is the case, weight will not be your number one priority. Compared to our Starlight Mini at only 4 grams, the Spotlight LED Headlight weighs 20 grams, but provides a light intensity of over 90,000 lux.

If you are weight sensitive but also require higher illumination, a headband is highly recommended. Our Spotlight LED Light mounts seamlessly onto either of our two headbands and will ensure that there is no added pressure to the bridge of your nose.

What do I need to look for in a Battery System?

Two aspects that you need to consider when deciding on a battery system are the battery life and the recharge time. Regarding battery life, it is important to use a Lithium-Polymer battery as opposed to a Lithium-Ion battery. Lithium-Ion is dated technology. Similar to phone charging in the 1990’s, if you do not charge a Lithium-Ion battery 100% each time, the battery life will be radically reduced. Lithium-Polymer batteries, however, have a ‘charge memory’ that is much less sensitive and will not radically deplete due to half charges.

Additionally, if you are used to busy working days and need a light which will last all day, every day– you will need a battery that lasts. It is with this idea in mind L.A. Lens created lights with batteries that are designed to last the entirety of a working day, allowing you the charge them only at night. However, we understand that life isn’t always that simple and sometimes you need to recharge your battery at lunch, making the recharge time crucial. It is for this reason our batteries at L.A. Lens only have only a 2 hour recharge time, compared to the 3 hour charge time of many of our competitors.

Conclusion

We hope these pointers have helped you identify the right light for you. While we have identified why certain lights should be avoided, there is no universal ‘best’ light, as it comes down to personal preference. There is a trade-off between weight and light intensity when choosing your headlight. For those looking for the lightest weight solution, we suggest the Starlight Mini LED Headlight - at only 4 grams. For medical and dental practitioners who require maximum illumination, The Spotlight LED Headlight offers over 90,000 lux and is the headlight for you.

The L.A. Lens Team

#dental light #dental products #L.A.Lens

What are the Benefits of Using Surgical/ Dental Loupes?

At L.A. Lens we are passionate about providing our clients, whether they are dentists, dental hygienists or surgeons, with an effective ergonomic visual solution. Surgical/ Dental Loupes are designed to allow the user to keep an ergonomic posture while working. This means the user will have a straight back and neck, preventing severe back, neck, and shoulder pain from hours of hunching over patients. An ergonomic posture is key, as it allows users to work for long periods of time comfortably, leading them to be more productive and effective on a daily basis. It is for this reason we have seen loupes become a standard in dental and medical schools across the world.

How do Surgical/Dental Loupes produce an Ergonomic Posture?

Loupes produce an ergonomic posture by the Angle of Declination they offer.

In the picture above, the angle of declination is apparent. The declination refers to how steep the barrels are angled downwards in the loupe frames, providing the user with the ability to sit upright in an ergonomic position while being able to see the patient below. At L.A. Lens we understand how important the Angle of Declination is in promoting a healthy ergonomic posture. As a result, we supply the steepest possible angle for our clients.

Additionally it is the Magnification provided by Surgical/ Dental Loupes which prevents the natural tendency we have to lean in and hunch over to get a closer look at our focus area, like this doctor pictured below.

At L.A. Lens we provide 2.5x, 3.3x and 4.0x magnification loupes, with distortion-free optics that will produce an image in perfect clarity - as we recognise the need for precision. By doing so, we ensure your subject area will be seen with great ease, comfort, and definition, refraining from adding strain to your posture or your eyes. The image below demonstrates the correct ergonomic posture which is achieved by L.A. Lens' Angle of Declination and Magnification.

We hope you find this advice useful and please do not hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any further questions.

The L.A. Lens Team

#Dental Loupes #dental products #L.A.Lens

Why Purchase Surgical Loupes, LED Headlights and HD Loupe-Mounted Cameras Online?

At L.A. Lens we are excited to give you the opportunity to purchase our quality surgical loupes, headlights and HD loupe-mounted cameras online. But, why online? I hear you ask. The reason for this is simple. We believe the medical devices market, which has been dominated by local dealers and high prices, is catching up with the times.

Similar to the dramatic shift in retail commerce to online, the desire for convenience has led doctors online in an attempt to find quality products at a reasonable price. At L.A. Lens, we are offering you the opportunity to purchase the highest quality product from the comfort of your own home. This will eliminate the hassle of scheduling an appointment with a local representative, who is bound to make you feel uncomfortable and pressured into purchasing a product even if you do not want to. We provide a 30 day money back guarantee, along with free shipping - waiving all perceived risks of online purchasing.

We are able to provide you with this service by simplifying the buying process and educating you, the consumer, in a few easy steps to ensure you make the right decision and purchase for you. And, if there is any information you do not understand, we are just a phone call or email away.

In addition to providing you with the best quality products on the market, L.A. Lens is dedicated to supplying exceptional customer service and transparency through its introduction of product reviews in order to put you, the customer, first.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The L.A. Lens Team.

#Dental Loupes #dental camera #dental light #dental products