A rationale for the use of high-powered magnification or microscopes in general dentistry.

This article argues that high-powered magnification (4x-6x or more) provides substantially more visual information for diagnosing and treating dental pathology compared to the use of unaided vision or entry-level 2.5x magnification. In all phases of general dentistry, the increased visual detail provided by high magnification reduces ambiguity in diagnosis and treatment decision-making, increases control in treatment implementation, allows a dentist to produce more ergonomic restorations that are less prone to recurrent decay, and arguably improves clinical outcomes compared to work performed with unaided vision. High magnification enhances a dentist's ability to diagnose caries and cracks in teeth, distinguish between different colors intraorally, detect the interfaces between different surfaces and materials, detect microscopic interferences in fixed and removable metal frameworks, adjust occlusal prematurities, and polish restorations. This article explains specific general dental applications for high-powered magnification in restorative dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, endodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, and oral surgery.