Mastering Indirect Vision: Effective Instrument Placement and Troubleshooting
Today, let's continue from our last discussion on posture to address the practical issues that arise when using indirect vision during dental treatments, focusing on instrument placement.
What might happen the first time you use indirect vision? Below is a photo from when I first attempted mirror work. You might find yourself in a similar situation.
When you try indirect vision skills, you might find it nearly impossible to see through the mirror because the water from the handpiece keeps splashing. At this point, you have two choices: either give up and continue as before, or try to figure out and fix the issue.
If you choose the latter, I will share my experience and help you.
First Issue: Focus solely on the mirror
The initial problem arises when the practitioner simultaneously tries to look at the mirror and the treatment area. This happens because they lack the confidence to operate solely by the mirror-reflected image, using it only sporadically to check their progress. This usually leads to positioning the mirror too close to the treatment area.
As a result, splashes from the handpiece obstruct the view.
Your task is to focus only on the mirror. This allows you to position the mirror far from the treatment site. If you find this challenging, the Dental MirrorMaster can help you practice.
Second: Adapting to the new role of the mirror
If you're already experienced in direct vision and trying indirect vision skills, adapting to the new role of the mirror is essential. Previously, mirrors were used mainly for retraction.
With indirect vision, the hand holding the mirror becomes as crucial as the one holding the handpiece. It must actively move to provide a view of the treatment area. This ability to coordinate both hands is crucial and can be developed using Dental MirrorMaster.
Lastly, positioning of the suction
Positioning a high-vacuum metal suction close to the handpiece reduces splashing. As shown below, even though the suction obstructs the direct view of the operating site, it's visible through the mirror.
You can also use plastic suction to remove any accumulated water from the floor of the mouth.
Revising the initial tool setup as follows can simplify your treatment process.
Indirect vision skills are not as complex as they seem. By identifying and addressing one issue at a time, you, too, can become a master.