This article contains excerpted material from Decisions in Dentistry. Written by Juan Carlos Ortiz Hugues, DDS, CEAS, an Endodontist practicing in Panama. He is a...

Neck pain, eye strain, and shoulder tension aren't just annoyances—they're warning signs. If you're leaning over patients to perform endo, it's only a matter of time before discomfort becomes dysfunction. A dental microscope isn't just about magnification—it's about longevity.

Patients fear root canals. And they often don't understand why they need one. But when you can show them a crack, decay, or an infected canal in real time using your microscope’s imaging system, case acceptance changes dramatically.

Performing endodontic therapy as a general dentist comes with its challenges. Missed canals, poor visibility, and operator fatigue can compromise outcomes. A dental microscope isn't just a fancy upgrade—it's a clinical ally that dramatically improves precision and confidence. Here's how.

If you’re a general dentist performing root canals, you likely began your journey into magnification with loupes. But as your cases become more complex and your desire for clinical precision grows, you may begin to question: Is it time for a microscope?

Investing in advanced equipment like a dental microscope can significantly enhance the quality of care you provide. Not only does it offer precision and ergonomic benefits, but it also comes with financial advantages due to Section 179 of the IRS tax code.

Becoming a dentist means being a lifelong learner. Not only is the nature of dentistry ever-evolving, but, of course, every state dental board has continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain your license each renewal period.

Endodontic retreatment is a specialized dental procedure performed when a previously treated tooth requires additional treatment due to persistent or recurring issues. It involves the removal of the existing root canal filling material, thorough cleaning and disinfection of the root canals, and subsequent re-filling to address any unresolved problems.

So, you're thinking about getting started with a dental microscope. Or, you're ready to dive into a new scope after loupes or a different microscope brand. 

Magnification is no longer a luxury in dentistry—it’s a necessity.