The Effect of Magnification on the Quality of Direct Posterior Composite Restorations and the Adjacent Sound Enamel: An In Vitro Study

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Abstract
Objective This study aimed at comparatively assessing the effect of different magnification levels on the immediate postoperative quality of class I direct posterior composite restorations and the adjacent sound enamel. Materials and Methods Following the modified Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trails (CONSORT) guidelines for in vitro studies, 30 noncarious maxillary human molars were selected. Standardized class I tooth preparation was done in all the teeth. They were randomly divided into three groups: unaided vision, magnifying loupe (3× magnification), and dental operating microscope (7.5× magnification). Each group underwent direct composite restoration, and the restored samples were evaluated for anatomic contour, surface texture, marginal integrity, excess material, and scratching of the adjacent sound enamel. Statistical analysis The non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by the post-hoc Mann-Whitney test were employed. Results Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in anatomic contour, surface texture, marginal integrity, or excess material among the three groups. However, a notable difference was observed in the scratching of adjacent sound enamel, with the unaided vision group exhibiting significantly higher levels than the microscope group (p = 0.022). Conclusion Direct composite restorations performed without magnification resulted in significantly higher adjacent sound enamel scratching than microscope-assisted procedures. The use of a dental operating microscope may minimize this risk, emphasizing its potential benefits in composite restorations.

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