Evolution of optic magnification in dentistry and its current uses: a narrative review

Salgado F.M.E.; Oprea B.; Stefanescu S.; Augusto J.C.M.C.; Oprea B.; Iuga M.M. · Romanian Journal of Stomatology (2025) · DOI: 10.37897/rjs.2025.1.10

Resumen

Background and objectives. This narrative review examines the historical development of magnification technology in dentistry, the current magnification systems and their clinical applications, and the impact of magnification on clinical practice and ergonomics. The specific objectives are to outline the historical timeline of magnification adoption, evaluate its impact across dental specialties, and assess associated ergonomic benefits. We hypothesized that magnification technology significantly improves clinical outcomes and reduces operator fatigue. Materials and methods. A literature review was conducted using Scopus, Web of Science, and Medline databases. The search (1975–2023) used keywords such as “operating microscope” and “dental loupes”. Inclusion criteria encompassed articles in English, Spanish, or Portuguese directly addressing the use of magnification in dentistry, while studies lacking sufficient data or overlapping content were excluded. Ultimately, 152 relevant sources were identified and qualitatively analyzed. Results. The literature demonstrates significant growth in the use of magnification technology over time. Early innovations began with simple magnifying lenses and progressed to loupes and sophisticated surgical microscopes with advanced optics and ergonomic designs. Magnification has been increasingly adopted in various dental specialties, improving the precision of clinical procedures and enhancing operator posture. Overall, magnification increases diagnostic and therapeutic accuracy, while helping to mitigate visual fatigue and reduce musculoskeletal strain in practitioners. Conclusion. Magnification technology represents a crucial advancement in modern dentistry, enhancing clinical outcomes and operator comfort. However, as a narrative review without quantitative meta-analysis, this study’s findings are based on qualitative synthesis and may be subject to selection bias. Within these limitations, the review underscores the importance of magnification tools in dental practice and encourages clinicians to implement magnification for improved patient care and practitioner well-being.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia; Universidad Privada de Tacna; Universidad Nacional Jorge Basadre Grohmann