Do we need microscopes for restorative treatment procedures? A pilot study in dental students´ education environment

Background The integration of magnification devices into dental education is widely recommended, yet evidence regarding their impact on student performance remains limited. This study evaluated the effect of dental loupes (DL) and dental operating microscopes (OPMI) on the quality of crown preparation and provisional restoration among preclinical and clinical dental students compared with standard protective glasses (SG). Methods Sixty dental students participated: 30 preclinical (fifth semester) and 30 clinical (ninth semester). Participants were randomly assigned to three groups: DL (ZEISS EyeMag Pro S 3.5×400), OPMI (ZEISS EXTARO 300), or SG (control). Each prepared a crown and a provisional restoration. Outcomes were assessed conventionally (expert ratings) and digitally (objective parameters). Performance differences were analyzed using generalized estimating equations (p < 0.05). Results Optical magnification significantly improved restorative performance compared with SG. Preclinical students using OPMI achieved the highest overall scores, while clinical students performed best with DL. GEE confirmed significant differences between OPMI and SG, but not between preclinical and clinical groups. Conclusions Optical magnification improved restorative outcomes compared with standard glasses. OPMI use was most beneficial in preclinical training, whereas DL appeared more advantageous in clinical settings. Integrating optical magnification into dental education enhances skill acquisition and clinical quality. OPMI supports precision and fine motor skills in preclinical training, while DL offers visual improvement with greater ergonomics and workflow flexibility in clinical practice. Tailoring magnification strategies to the training stage may optimize educational and clinical performance.