implants - the journal of oral implantology UK Edition

42 I I equipment _ surgical microscopes implants1_2012 _Whilst the value of the dental micro- scope is widely acknowledged across the treatment spectrum, its impact has been most keenly felt in the field of endodontics. Implant dentistry is one particular applica- tion where the introduction of the microscope has brought significant benefits to every phase of the treatment protocol. Implant treatment may take place over several weeks and involve delicate and complex surgery where absolute clarity of view is vital to achieve the optimum outcome with minimal peripheral tissue dam- age or invasion. Studies have demonstrated that the accuracy of such procedures is almost always improved when surgeons enlist the aid of a microscope, a clear indication that em- ploying microsurgical techniques in implanto- logy offers advantages over more traditional methods. The surgeon is able to place the im- plant through a relatively minute incision in the gingiva, thus minimising tissue trauma and significantly reducing the pain experienced by the patient; healing and osseointegration are both expedited, and overall aesthetic results enhanced. A high specification, high magnification mi- croscope is especially valuable in more chal- lenging cases involving, for example, sinus elevations or the need to place implants proxi- mal to other sensitive anatomic structures. The current generation of advanced microscopes allows unimpeded stereoscopic vision whilst dedicated illumination enables the delivery of high-contrast, true-colour images of even the most inaccessible areas to be viewed with clarity and in comfort. These state-of-the-art microscopes feature lenses of supreme preci- sion which incorporate apochromatic technol- ogy to eliminate chromatic aberration, and filters which not only prevent premature cur- ing but can enhance the visibility of specific tissue types. A modern dental microscope offers more than simply a hugely magnified image of the treatment site. The combination of magnifica- tion with intense, shadowless, panoramic il- lumination from an integrated co-axial light source brings into view features previously imperceptible, even through the use of den- tal loupes. Typical benefits include enabling more accurate drilling of the lateral socket wall to achieve greater stability for the im- plant, leading in turn to more accurate align- ment and the promotion of optimal function and aesthetic appeal. The surgical Microscope of Implant Dentistry Improved Clarity, Improved Precision Author_John Woods