Researchers from the University of Seville in Spain have reviewed the use of microscopes for dental surgery. They recommend that dentists learning microsurgery techniques wear 2.5× to 4× magnifying lenses integrated into their glasses because the lenses provide larger fields of view, making it easier to see. They point out that greater magnifications decrease the field of view and, thus, can increase eyestrain. As learning progresses, magnifications of 8× to 16× and of 32× to 40× can be used for routine procedures and for detail work, respectively.

The authors list several advantages of using microscopes in dentistry. In general, they state that microscopes improve the ability to see the surgical area and, in turn, give patients and doctors greater satisfaction as well as increase the ability to record images for clinical, training and legal purposes.

Most dentists use ceiling- or wall-mounted microscopes because they are less likely to be obstructive, although floor units can be used, depending on the arrangement of the operating room. The authors point out the importance of controlling trembling hands and suggest several methods. They emphasize posture for microsurgical procedures, stating that, ideally, the dentist should be comfortable yet clearly be able to see inside the mouth. The authors also detail microsurgical procedures for various specialties within dentistry. Microscopes can aid endodontists, periodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and restorative dentists.

Overall, they would like to bring microsurgery to new dentists because the use of microscopes is “one of the greatest advances in modern dentistry.” (Medicina Oral, Patologìa Oral y Cirugìa Bucal, Aug. 1, 2007, pp. E311-E316.)