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The Difference Between Contact Lenses and Eyeglasses Prescriptions – Tips from Your Edmonton Optomet

smiling patient enjoying his glasses!

When you are deciding whether to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, or to alternate between wearing both, you must consider a variety of factors. Do you want to wear prescription sunglasses? Do coloured contacts appeal to you? Are disposable contacts more appropriate for you than monthly contact lenses?

The staff members at Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. are always ready to help you explore the options. From frames to lenses, we offer a broad range of eyewear products. The first step is generally to perform an eye exam to determine the right prescription for your eyes. Exploring the Differences and Similarities in Eyewear Prescriptions It is important to know that the eye exams and prescriptions for eyeglasses and contacts differ. The measurement process is different, and the prescription is unique for each item. These are the primary differences between getting prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses: · Two Exams: If you wish to wear both contact lenses and eyeglasses at different times, you will need to have two separate eye exams. The exam for eyeglasses must be implemented with the knowledge that eyeglasses will be further away from the eyes than contact lenses which are placed on the eyes directly. In most cases, eyeglasses rest about 12mm away from the eyes. · Your Vision: When you are undergoing any type of eye exam, one detail will not be a variable: your vision. This will be the same whether you are going to wear contact lenses or eyeglasses. The first step in establishing a correct prescription is to establish the condition of your eyesight. · Contact Lens Exam: If you are interested in wearing contact lenses, the exam will involve more than determining the state of your vision. The doctor may need to perform various tests to see how your vision is when wearing contacts. Your eyes will also need to be fitted for the right contacts. Details such as the base curve, diameter, and material of the contact lenses must all be taken into consideration. · Eyeglasses Exam: When you wear eyeglasses, you must establish a proper fit for these, as well. In addition to having your eyesight evaluated, you will need to find an eyeglass frame that fits you properly. · Prescriptions: Once you have been through an eye exam, the doctor can write a prescription for eyeglasses, contact lenses, or both. Because eyeglasses sit some distance away from your eyes, the prescription for glasses is typically a bit stronger than for contact lenses. This is the primary difference between the two prescriptions. The Importance of Eye Exams and Checkups Whether you are shopping for eyeglasses, contact lenses, prescription sunglasses, or coloured contacts in Edmonton, it is important have your eyes examined regularly. Once you have had your eyesight tested, and you have been fitted for the eyewear of your choice, be sure to book checkups as often as your eye doctor at the Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. recommends. This will ensure that the eyewear you select always serves you well. Visit the Optometrists’ Clinic, Inc., so you can get the contact lenses or eyeglasses in Edmonton that work best for you. Also, feel free to contact us for more information about the services and products we offer.

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