How to choose the best and most suitable lab coat?

The lab coat is a mandatory item for access to the laboratory in educational institutions. Later, it will be used during internships, clinics, offices, and hospitals. They are used to identify the student or professional and protect against infectious agents. Choosing them should be done responsibly, taking into account your role. The lab coat is an essential item in the lives of healthcare professionals. indispensable . Doctors can usually wear their own white coats, except for surgery.

As a dental, medical, or podiatry professional, choosing the ideal lab coat for your office or laboratory is an important decision that can directly impact your patients' image and perception. In this article, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting the best lab coat for your office or laboratory, from the importance of color to the most appropriate fabric types and design.

Essential tip for your first lab coat.

As a first tip, it is super important that you contact your course's secretariat to check the model of the lab coat they require, as each educational institution has its own dress code.

Why is it important for the lab coat to be white?

The white coat is considered the gold standard in healthcare for several reasons:

1. Hygiene and Asepsis : The color white conveys a sense of cleanliness, hygiene, and asepsis, essential elements in a clinical environment. Patients tend to feel more confident and secure when treated by professionals in white coats. White allows for better visibility of soiled or blood-stained uniforms, helping to prevent contamination and infections .
2. Professional Image : The white coat is seen as a symbol of authority, competence, and professionalism in the healthcare field. It helps reinforce the image of a qualified professional dedicated to patient care. White is generally associated with positive ideas for the population as a whole. It conjures up tranquility, purity, and a sense of peace.
3. Easy Identification : The white color stands out in a dental or medical office, making it easy to quickly identify the professional responsible for the care. This contributes to a more fluid and relaxed experience for the patient.

A very dark lab coat can make it difficult or even impossible for the wearer to see any dirt. However, colored lab coats are now available, and they are widely used by doctors, dentists, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals who will be providing office care and not performing invasive procedures.

Therefore, opting for a white coat is a wise choice that enhances the image of your practice and conveys confidence to your patients.

Why should I avoid wearing lace on my lab coat?

While lace can be considered an elegant decorative element, it is not recommended for dental lab coats for a few important reasons:

1. Hygiene and Asepsis : Lace has small spaces and details that can accumulate dirt, dust, and even microorganisms, making it difficult to thoroughly sanitize the lab coat. This can compromise the image of cleanliness and asepsis that the white coat should convey.
2. Patient Safety : In a clinical setting, it's essential to avoid any element that could come into contact with the patient and cause harm, such as getting caught in equipment or falling on the patient. Lace poses an unnecessary risk in this regard.
3. Professionalism : Lace lab coats can be seen as overly ornate, distracting the patient from the main focus: professional, quality care. A simpler, more functional lab coat is more in line with the image of a serious, dedicated professional.

Therefore, it is recommended to opt for lab coats with a clean design and without lace, prioritizing functionality, hygiene and the professional image of the dental office.

Type of collar of a lab coat?

Choosing the type of lab coat collar is also an important factor to consider. The main options are:

1. Traditional Collar, Sport Collar, or Regular Collar: This is the most common and versatile option, quite similar to the regular shirt style. It has a simple and elegant design that adapts well to different styles and personal preferences. It closes at the front of the lab coat, forming a V-shape.
2. Priest Collar: The priest collar, also called a clerical collar, is characterized by a higher, closed opening at the front of the lab coat. This type of collar, besides being particularly charming, provides maximum protection. It rises to the neck, leaving an opening only halfway between the two parts. The priest collar is highly recommended for students and professionals in the field of dentistry. However, other courses also adopt this style. This design can offer a more formal and solemn appearance, which some healthcare professionals prefer.
3. Smoking Collar: This collar has a more open design than the traditional collar. This collar is designed for men. It provides an ideal fit for wearing a lab coat with a tie. This type of collar makes men's models quite elegant and more formal. It's a style that's gaining ground in the male healthcare community.

The choice between a traditional collar, a priest collar, or a tuxedo collar depends primarily on your personal preference and the style you want to convey in your practice. Both options are appropriate and acceptable, as long as they maintain an image of professionalism and hygiene.

Short, 3/4 or long sleeves?

Besides the collar, another important factor when choosing a lab coat is the sleeve type. The main options are:

1. Short Sleeves : Short sleeves are a practical and versatile choice, especially in warmer climates. They allow for greater mobility and freedom of movement during dental procedures.
2. Long Sleeve : Long sleeves offer a more formal look and provide better coverage of the professional's arms. They can be a good option in colder climates or for professionals who prefer a more traditional look.
3. 3/4 Sleeve : 3/4 sleeves are a middle ground option, covering part of the arm without being as long as traditional sleeves. They can be a good alternative for those looking for a versatile solution that combines comfort and a professional appearance.

Despite the diversity of sleeve models and types of lab coats, we cannot lose focus on the purpose of the coat: The use of lab coats in the healthcare field is essential to protect professionals and prevent the spread of pathogens.

According to the Ministry of Health and the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), ideal lab coats should follow certain standards:

• For individual and routine use in laboratories.
• Own long sleeves , made with materials suitable for the activity to be carried out.
• Avoid rolling up your sleeves to avoid exposing your skin to risk agents.
• Preferably, it should be worn with long trousers and only for its intended purpose.

Short-sleeved and three-quarter-sleeved lab coats have been gaining popularity, especially in warmer climates. They offer greater comfort and coolness, making them ideal for hot days.

Therefore, the choice between short or long sleeves must consider factors other than protection against contamination.

Handle type

1. Knit Cuff: Also known as Rib Cuff, this cuff style has a certain amount of elasticity and provides a tighter fit. If you're looking for a comfortable lab coat that offers flexibility, the Rib Cuff is ideal for that.
2. Elastic Cuff: This type isn't as aesthetically pleasing, but it also helps with flexibility by keeping it snug. It's made from the lab coat's own fabric, but elastic is sewn around the entire circumference.
3. Shirt Cuff: This cuff looks aesthetically pleasing and also creates a tighter fit. It also has a buttonhole and a button, allowing you to open the cuff and stretch the sleeves. Depending on the circumference, your lab coat can be worn as a 3x4 sleeve.
4. Cuffless: This style features a closing seam at the hem at the end of the sleeve. It is not recommended for those seeking protection, as the cuff is loose and, in some cases, exposed.

Can I wear the lab coat outside the office or laboratory?

The lab coat is one of the items that make up the uniform of healthcare professionals, and the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies it as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) . Furthermore, the WHO states that the lab coat provides an additional protective barrier against microorganisms to which healthcare professionals are exposed in their daily work routine. Despite the importance of the lab coat, there are many complaints about its improper use, which violates Anvisa regulations, which recommends using the garment only within the workplace .

The correct use of the garment is described in Anvisa Resolution 32. In some cities and states, professionals who wear the lab coat outside of permitted areas may be fined.

It's important to avoid wearing a lab coat in informal situations, such as outings, shopping, or personal activities. This can compromise the image of professionalism and hygiene that the coat should convey.

What is the best type of fabric for a lab coat?

Choosing the right fabric for your dental lab coat is crucial to ensure comfort, durability, and the desired professional image. Some of the main fabric types to consider are:

1. Cotton : Cotton is a natural, breathable, and comfortable fabric that adapts well to the needs of a clinical environment. It's a classic and easy-care option.
2. Polyester : Polyester is a synthetic fabric that offers greater resistance to stains and wear. It's a good choice for lab coats that need to withstand frequent washing and sterilization.
3. Cotton and Polyester Blend : The cotton and polyester blend fabric combines the advantages of both materials, offering comfort, durability and easy maintenance.
4. Gabardine : Gabardine is a cotton or polyester fabric with a fine, smooth texture, which gives the lab coat an elegant and sophisticated look.
5. Oxford : Oxford fabric, made from cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, has a slightly crinkled texture, providing a more casual yet professional look.
6. Microfiber: Microfiber is a synthetic fabric composed of extremely fine fibers, usually made of polyester or polyamide. These characteristics make it soft and absorbent, versatile, hypoallergenic, and wrinkle-resistant.

Choosing the ideal fabric will depend on your local climate, your personal preferences, and the level of wear and tear the lab coat will need to withstand. Consult Dental Access for more information on available options.

What is the best type of fabric for lab coats according to the climate?

In addition to the general characteristics of the fabric, it's also important to consider your region's climate when choosing the ideal lab coat. Here are some recommendations:

1. Hot and Humid Climates : In these conditions, lightweight, breathable fabrics, such as pure cotton or cotton-polyester blends, are the best options. They help keep workers cool and comfortable while working.
2. Cold Climates : In regions with lower temperatures, more insulating fabrics, such as gabardine, microfiber, or Oxford, can be a good choice. They provide more shelter and comfort during the colder months.
3. Moderate Climates : In mild climates, a cotton and polyester blend is a versatile option as it offers both comfort and durability.

Regardless of the weather, it's important to ensure the fabric you choose is high-quality, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. This will help keep your lab coat looking pristine for longer.

What is gabardine?

Gabardine is a high-quality fabric, usually made of cotton or polyester, with a fine, smooth texture. Some key characteristics of gabardine:

1. Durability : Gabardine fabric is known for its strength and durability, withstanding frequent use and washing well.
2. Elegance : The smooth surface and refined drape of gabardine give the lab coats an elegant and sophisticated look.
3. Versatility : In addition to being used in lab coats, gabardine is also used in the production of formal clothing, such as trousers and blazers.
4. Easy Maintenance : Gabardine fabric is easy to care for, resisting stains and wrinkles well, making it easier to maintain the lab coat.
5. Comfort : Despite its refined appearance, gabardine is also a comfortable and breathable fabric, providing good performance in clinical environments.

Gabardine is an excellent option for dental professionals looking for a coat with an elegant and sophisticated appearance, without sacrificing comfort and durability.

What is Oxford?

Oxford cloth is another material widely used in the manufacture of dental gowns. Some important characteristics of Oxford cloth:

1. Wrinkled Texture : Oxford has a slightly wrinkled texture, which gives it a more informal and relaxed appearance, compared to smoother fabrics.
2. Composition : Oxford is usually made from a blend of cotton and polyester, combining the softness of cotton with the durability of polyester.
3. Versatility : In addition to lab coats, Oxford fabric is also used to make dress shirts and other clothing items.
4. Comfort : Oxford is a breathable and soft fabric, providing a good level of comfort during use.
5. Maintenance : Although it has a more informal appearance, Oxford is easy to maintain, withstanding washing and sterilization well.

The Oxford can be a great option for dental professionals who want a lab coat with a slightly more casual look, without losing the image of professionalism.

What is Microfiber?

These fibers are so delicate that they range in diameter from 0.5 to 10 micrometers, which is much thinner than a human hair. 12 Imagine a spider's web, only even thinner and smoother.

Here are some important characteristics of microfiber:

1. Softness and Absorbency : Microfiber is known for its softness and rapid moisture absorption. Because of this, it's often used in bedding, bath towels, robes, and blankets. When you curl up in a microfiber blanket, you're experiencing this softness and comfort.
2. Versatility : This fabric is incredibly versatile. Besides being used in clothing and accessories, it's also used in cleaning products. Microfiber cloths, for example, are excellent for cleaning surfaces because they absorb dirt and moisture well.
3. Hypoallergenic : A major advantage of microfiber is its hypoallergenic nature. This means it's a safe option for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
4. No Need to Pass! : Yes, you read that right. Microfiber doesn't wrinkle easily. So if you have a garment made of this material, save time when ironing.

Now, since not everything is perfect, let's look at the disadvantages:

1. Reduced Durability : Because it's synthetic, microfiber can lose quality over time and with exposure to moisture. However, if you take good care of your pieces, they'll still have a reasonable lifespan.
2. Heat Retention: Products made with microfiber, especially polyester, can be stuffy, making it difficult to breathe. Therefore, in hot climates, it may be better to opt for other, more breathable fabrics.

In short, microfiber is one of those materials that envelops us without us even realizing it. It combines comfort, practicality, and versatility in an ultra-thin package.

What types of lab coats are available at Dental Access?

Dental Access, as a company specializing in products for dentistry, medicine, podiatry, and laboratory services, offers a wide variety of lab coats to meet the needs of professionals in various healthcare fields, not just dentistry. Some of the main types of lab coats available are:

1. Cotton Lab Coats : Options made from 100% cotton or a cotton and polyester blend, offering comfort, breathability and easy maintenance.
2. Gabardine Lab Coats : Models made from gabardine fabric, providing an elegant and sophisticated look, with excellent durability.
3. Oxford Lab Coats : Lab coats made from Oxford fabric, which have a slightly wrinkled texture, giving a more informal yet professional appearance.
4. Microfiber Lab Coats : Lab coats made from microfiber fabric are lightweight, soft, and don't require ironing.
5. Lab Coats with Traditional Collar : Options with a traditional collar, which adapt to different styles and personal preferences.
6. Lab Coats with Priest Collar : Models with a clerical collar, which give a more formal and solemn appearance.
7. Lab Coats with Smoking Collar : Models with a smoking collar provide a more executive, masculine and formal appearance.
8. Short Sleeve, 3/4 Sleeve and Long Sleeve Lab Coats : Various sleeve length options to meet your comfort and professional image needs.
9. Lab coats with cuffs (mesh, elastic, shirt) and without cuffs : The options with and without cuffs provide a variety of models, meeting the various regulations and protocols established for the use of PPE.

When you visit Dental Access, you can explore this wide variety of lab coats and find the style that best suits the needs of your office, clinic, or laboratory.

Therefore, when choosing the ideal lab coat for your specific activity, without forgetting elegance, consider factors such as color, collar type, sleeve length, fabric, and the climate conditions in your region. This way, you can convey an image of professionalism, hygiene, and trust to your patients, further enhancing the service you provide.