The use of magnification in general dental practice in Scotland--a survey report

Objectives: This study had two aims, first, to quantify the level of the use of magnification in general dental practice in Scotland and second, to determine the current and potential areas of clinical use of magnification by general dental practitioners.

Methods: A questionnaire was sent to all general dental practitioners in Scotland with a Health Board list number (n=1790). The questionnaire asked the practitioners about their experience of magnification and their opinions on possible areas for clinical use. An information sheet and a prepaid envelope were included with the questionnaire.

Results: One thousand two hundred and eighty (72%) of the dentists replied to the questionnaire. Nine percent of the respondents routinely used magnification. The level of routine use of magnification by practitioners increased with time since qualification. The suggested areas of clinical use of magnification by all the respondents were crown and bridge work, diagnosis and radiography. The routine users of magnification had a more positive view of magnification than non-users.

Conclusions: Routine use of magnification was associated with the length of time the practitioner had been qualified and the attendance at a course at which magnification was discussed. The perceived uses of magnification depended on the experience of the practitioner with magnification. It was considered suitable for all clinical procedures except orthodontics and prosthodontics.