There is one other nugget of knowledge to add to lighting for dental offices (see March 12th posting). Accurate color rendering is critical in dentistry. Whether placing a single crown or numerous veneers the goal is blend between the new and existing. The Color Rendering Index (CRI) of the fluorescent lighting in a dental operatory is critical to the success of your color matching!
In the operatory using a lamp with a CRI of 5500 degrees Kelvin creates the best “daylight” rendering available for color matching. To my knowledge Duro-Test is only manufacturer with a 5500 K lamp known as the “Vita-Lite” lamp. The lamp comes in 4’ lengths both with T-8 (energy efficient) and T-12 (non-efficient) sizes and replaces standard fluorescent lamping in your operatory troffers. (Note: Only troffers with T-8 electronic ballasts can efficiently run the T-8 lamps.)
But wait! Impact the light quality in the rest of your office by relamping other existing fluorescent fixtures with 3500 degree Kelvin lamps. They come in all sorts of types and sizes and enhance and warm the interior colors in your office while creating natural, healthy looking skin tones! No more unhealthy greenish cast from those 2700 degree Kelvin lamps.
So, where does one find these lamps?
- In
- Or, you can order any lamp type through Pacific Lamps (206) 767-5334; they
- For Duro-Test, order direct at 800-289-3876 or http://www.duro-test.com
Still not sure? Call me at 206-706-2820 or email me pictures of your practice’s lighting at Janice@SEIseattle.com and I will point you in the right direction!
Posts
