Relevance. The quality of professional oral hygiene is a key factor in the successful treatment of chronic periodontitis. Traditionally, the removal of dental deposits from the root surface is performed “blindly,” relying on the dentist's tactile sensations, but visual control can significantly increase the effectiveness of the procedure. For visualization, it is recommended to use a surgical microscope, binocular loupes, and a periodontal endoscope. The purpose of this systematic review is to study the available information and analyze data on the feasibility, effectiveness, and scope of application of magnifying devices in dental practice. Methodology. Search in PubMed, Google Search, Embase, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SciELO and Elibrary (2016–2025) databases using a strategy consistent with PRISMA. Based on the selection criteria, 36 publications were selected. Randomized controlled trials comparing root scaling using one of the magnification devices with a control (without magnification) or with each other were included. Primary outcomes: change in probing depth and clinical attachment level. A qualitative synthesis of the data was performed. Results. Analysis of the literature data showed that the use of an operating microscope, binocular loupes, and a periodontal endoscope improves visualization of the operative field. The use of magnifying devices contributes to more accurate detection of subgingival dental deposits compared to examination with the naked eye. The procedure of removing dental deposits from the root surface using an endoscope demonstrated a statistically significant greater reduction in probing depth in deep pockets (≥5 mm) compared to the control. Data on the effectiveness of microscopes and binocular loupes are contradictory: only one study showed the advantage of a microscope at a certain magnification, while others did not reveal significant differences in the main indices. A limitation is the high heterogeneity of studies in terms of protocols, operator experience, and duration of observation. Conclusions. The use of a periodontal endoscope increases the effectiveness of root surface polishing in deep pockets, potentially reducing the need for surgical intervention. The advantages of microscopes and binocular loupes in routine non-surgical treatment need to be confirmed in more standardized randomized studies. The clinical choice of device should take into account pocket depth, accessibility, and staff training.
Artemyev et al. (Sun,) studied this question.