FAQ on key factors to choose the right dental led light

Q: What advice do you offer to practices looking to transition to LED lighting? A: Dental led light has become a viable alternative to the fluorescent lamp (bulb) in the last year. Until now, the LED was costly, technically challenged by ineffective heat dissipation, and too blue/cool for most users expecting to replicate the warmth of incandescent. In the last year we have begun to specify LED “tape lighting strips” in uplighting coves, LED recessed cans in corridors and LED strip or stick lighting under upper cabinets. Q: How can dentists make educated decisions as to whether operatory lights or headlights are best for them? A: Headlights have definitely expanded in use and in preference by dentists. As with any technology, the complaints associated with headlights when first introduced —heavy, bulky and awkward in use—have subsided with again, advancing technology of the “fixture” type. Even so, we have not eliminated the combination of room illumination lighting and dental patient light from the operatory. In fact, orthodontics and pediatric dentists that would forgo the dental light entirely are introducing them into their treatment areas with expanding procedures requiring good field of vision (or good light). Q: Do you believe it’s a good idea to have windows/natural lighting in operatories? A: Absolutely. Shade matching may still be a driver for windows in some practices. We recommend windows to promote patient comfort and provider productivity. Working in a windowless environment all day has been shown to decrease productivity and increase stress in the dental environment. Q: What are possible solutions when a north orientation is not possible or if the operatory can not have windows? A: When north orientation is just not possible, then we recommend roller shades (Mecho or NYSAN) that allow visibility to the exterior but minimize glare and heat gain. If no windows are possible then we definitely recommend a mix of lighting, task and ambient, to create options of light during the course of the day to create change and add comfort. Q: What else should clinicians consider in regards to lighting? A: Most important: Don’t use the same light source throughout your office. Select lighting based on functional and esthetic criteria for each space. Too many dental offices have 2x4 fluorescent lighting in every space and lose any benefit that a mix of lighting can offer. Specifically, a recessed fluorescent light fixture is appropriate over a task area (operatory, lab, sterilization), but is a poor choice for non task areas in creating ambient appeal in a space. Your patients and your staff enjoy and benefit from changes in lighting throughout the dental environment. See more https://www.dentalsalemall.com