The Use of the Operating Microscope in General Dental Practice Part 1: Magnification in General

An increasing number of clinicians are using magnification to facilitate their vision when carrying out dental examinations and treatments. The use of an operating microscope in some dental specialties (such as endodontics) is now commonplace and there is also a role for this equipment in branches of general dentistry. This paper, the first of two, reviews the many advantages of using an operating microscope and offers practical advice on how the interested clinician may embark on using such an instrument by discussing the equipment required. The second paper will focus on the potential uses for the operating microscope in general dental as well as specialist practice.

Clinical Relevance: The operating microscope enhances the dental surgeon's vision, potentially improving treatment outcomes not only in specialist fields, such as endodontics, but also in many of the disciplines that general dental practice encompasses.