Assessing the Use of Loupes and Lights in Dental Hygiene Educational Programs

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the use of loupes and lights in dental hygiene programs, to assess why they are being used, and to evaluate at what point in time they are introduced to students within the curriculum.Methods: A 20 question survey was developed and pilot tested. The survey was disseminated electronically to 335 dental hygiene program directors in the United States. Frequency distributions were analyzed to provide an overview of the data and Fisher's Exact Test was used to investigate differences between technical/community college programs and university-based programs.Results: Out of the 335 electronic surveys, 143 were completed for a response rate of 47%. Prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomics, and enhanced vision for instrumentation remain the top three advantages of using loupes. Ninety-six percent of respondents indicated students use loupes and over 50% of faculty use loupes. Fifty-seven percent of dental hygiene programs encourage students to purchase loupes with a light. Fifty percent of students pay $601-$900 for loupes and 47% pay $300-$600 for a light.Conclusion: Student and faculty use of loupes and lights are increasing in educational programs. Future research should focus on the longitudinal impact of using loupes/lights, the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, and an investigation of the continued use of loupes in a professional setting post-graduation.