RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Assessing the Use of Loupes and Lights in Dental Hygiene Educational Programs
JF American Dental Hygienists Association
JO J Dent Hyg
FD American Dental Hygienists Association
SP 15
OP 20
VO 91
IS 6
A1 Michelle C. Arnett
A1 Anne E. Gwozdek
A1 Sahira Ahmed
A1 Hunter D. Beaubien
A1 Kristen B. Yaw
A1 Iwonka T. Eagle
YR 2017
UL http://jdh.adha.org/content/91/6/15.abstract
AB 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.