Eyeglasses

Single Vision
A lens used for correction of one distance only such as near (reading) or distance (driving).

Bifocal
This lens is used for near and distance vision correction with a visible line separating the areas.

Trifocal
This lens used for near, intermediate, and distance vision correction with two visible lines. The top portion of the lens is used for distance vision; the centre portion for intermediate vision; and the bottom portion for near vision.

Progressive Add Lens (invisible or no-line)
This lens is used to correct for near, intermediate and distance vision. It is aesthetically designed without a visible line in the lens. The prescription in the lens gradually changes from the top (distance) portion of the lens to the bottom (reading). More information is available at Essilor or visit Varilux

Occupational
These lenses are similar to bifocal lenses except they have an additional near correction area at the top of the lens. They are commonly used by electricians, auto mechanics, plumbers, or any person who needs to do near work above their head.

Plastic
The main advantages of plastic lenses are their light weight and safety features, in comparison to glass lenses. Approximately 90% of all spectacle lenses are now plastic.

High-index materials
High-index lenses create a thinner profile for those with strong prescriptions. The lenses are lighter in weight than standard glass or plastic lenses. As a result, they are more comfortable and cosmetically desirable. A variety of high-index materials are available to accommodate different prescriptions.

Photochromic material
Lenses that darken when exposed to visible or ultra-violet light are available. Photochromic materials are available in single vision, as well as bifocal and progressive lenses. There are a number of materials available. Our office primarily uses Transitions branded lenses for plastic lenses.

Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are manufactured by laminating a polarizing filter between two pieces of tinted ophthalmic plastic or glass. This is the preferred lens material for sunglasses. Light which has been reflected off of a horizontal surface such as snow, water, or vehicles is referred to as polarized light. This polarized light is a source of glare which can be annoying and uncomfortable. The polarizing filter blocks this reflected light reducing the source of the glare.

High Impact-Resistance
Polycarbonate is known as a high impact material. It has a higher shatter resistance than regular plastic lenses but has a tendency to scratch easier, even with a scratch resistant coating. It is useful for anyone needing superior eye protection, including children, teens, and active adults.

Scratch-Resistant Coatings
A coating designed to reduce scratches from everyday cleaning and normal wear but will not prevent all scratches. All of our plastic lenses are manufactured with a scratch resistant coating.

Anti-Reflective Coating (AR)
An AR coating not only removes distracting and annoying reflections due to the lens, it also increases the cosmetic appearance of the lenses. The reduction in lens reflections may reduce eye fatigue, especially while viewing computer screens or driving at night. Depending on the prescription and lens materials, AR coatings may be recommended. Significant improvements in AR coatings are continuously being made.