What is conservative dentistry?
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ToggleConservative dentistry is the field concerned with diagnosing and treating tooth decay and restoring damaged teeth. The name “conservative” is no accident – the aim is to preserve as much healthy tooth tissue as possible and restore the tooth to full function.
In practice, this means the dentist removes only the decayed tissue and then fills the cavity with a composite material that recreates the tooth’s natural shape and colour. At Moje Ząbki clinic in Ząbki we use only modern light-cured composites – durable, aesthetic and safe for your health.
What treatments does conservative dentistry include?
Treating tooth decay – composite fillings
Tooth decay starts inconspicuously – as a white spot on the enamel that gradually turns into a brown or black discolouration and eventually into a cavity (a hole) in the tooth. The earlier we detect it, the smaller and simpler the treatment.
At our clinic in Ząbki decay is treated as follows: the dentist gives a local anaesthetic (so the procedure is painless), removes the decayed tissue with a drill or laser, cleans and disinfects the cavity, and then applies composite material in layers, curing each layer with a curing light. Finally, the dentist shapes the tooth and adjusts the bite.
The whole procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the size of the cavity. The result? The tooth looks healthy – a composite filling faithfully reproduces the colour and translucency of natural enamel.
Rebuilding damaged teeth
When the cavity is large or the tooth is badly damaged (e.g. after an injury), a filling alone may not be enough. In such cases we carry out an extensive composite build-up – we recreate the entire crown of the tooth, restoring its shape, function and appearance. If the tooth needs additional reinforcement, we use fibreglass posts, which provide a solid foundation for the restoration.
Treating tooth sensitivity
Pain when drinking cold drinks, eating sweets or even breathing in cold air is a sign of tooth sensitivity. At Moje Ząbki we diagnose the cause of the sensitivity (exposed tooth necks, enamel loss, bruxism) and choose the right treatment – from desensitising agents to protective fillings.
Aesthetic fillings
Modern light-cured composites come in dozens of shades, so the colour of the filling can be matched precisely to the natural colour of the tooth. At Moje Ząbki we also replace old, dark amalgam fillings with aesthetic composites – if the patient wants to improve the look of their smile or the old filling is leaking.
Endodontics – root canal treatment at Moje Ząbki
Endodontics is the dental speciality that deals with diseases of the dental pulp (commonly called the “nerve”). Root canal treatment is necessary when decay reaches the inside of the tooth and infects the pulp – or when an injury causes the pulp to die.
When is root canal treatment needed?
Root canal treatment is indicated in the following situations: severe, spontaneous toothache (especially if it gets worse at night), prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold (the pain does not go away once the stimulus is removed), pain when biting on the tooth, swelling of the gum around the tooth or a draining abscess (fistula), the tooth turning darker (pulp necrosis), and extensive decay reaching the pulp visible on an X-ray.
If you have any of these symptoms, don’t wait. The sooner you start treatment, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
What does root canal treatment involve, step by step?
At Moje Ząbki clinic in Ząbki we carry out root canal treatment as follows:
Diagnosis – a clinical examination and an X-ray (a periapical X-ray or a panoramic radiograph) allow us to assess the number and shape of the canals and the extent of the infection.
Anaesthesia – the procedure is always performed under local anaesthesia. Root canal treatment does not hurt – that is a myth that puts patients off coming in.
Isolating the tooth – we place a rubber dam (a rubber shield) that isolates the tooth being treated from the rest of the mouth. This is a quality standard that prevents the canals from being contaminated with bacteria from saliva.
Shaping the canals – the dentist opens the pulp chamber and uses precision endodontic instruments to clean the infected pulp out of the canals. Each canal is measured with an apex locator (an electronic length-measuring device), which ensures the canal is prepared accurately all the way to the root tip.
Irrigation and disinfection – the canals are flushed repeatedly with disinfecting solutions (sodium hypochlorite, EDTA), which eliminate bacteria from areas that instruments cannot reach.
Filling the canals – the cleaned canals are filled with gutta-percha (a biocompatible material) and a sealer. A tight seal prevents reinfection.
Restoring the tooth – once the root canal treatment is complete, the tooth needs to be restored. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may be a composite filling, a fibreglass post with a crown, or a prosthetic crown.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
No – and this is by far the most important thing to know for patients who put off their visit out of fear. Root canal treatment under local anaesthesia is painless. The discomfort you may remember from the past probably occurred when the tooth was severely inflamed and the anaesthetic worked less well – modern anaesthetic techniques make it possible to numb even such teeth effectively.
After the procedure, you may feel slight tenderness when biting, which subsides within a few days and is easily controlled with ordinary painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol).
How long does root canal treatment take?
Root canal treatment of a single-rooted tooth (e.g. an incisor) usually takes 45–60 minutes and is often completed in one visit. Multi-rooted teeth (molars with 3–4 canals) may require 60–90 minutes or two visits, especially when the infection is advanced and a medicated dressing needs to be placed between visits.
Modern methods and materials
At Moje Ząbki clinic in Ząbki we use proven, modern solutions that ensure patient comfort and long-lasting results.
Light-cured composites of the latest generation – wear-resistant, aesthetic and available in many shades. Our fillings are virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth.
Computer-controlled anaesthesia – for patients who are afraid of injections, we offer computer-controlled anaesthesia (The Wand), which is much gentler than a traditional syringe.
Digital X-ray – it emits a minimal dose of radiation (up to 90% less than traditional machines), and the image is available instantly on the computer screen.
Apex locator – an electronic canal length meter that allows the working length to be determined precisely without the need for multiple X-rays.
Rubber dam – standard isolation of the tooth during root canal treatment, ensuring a sterile treatment field.
How much do fillings and root canal treatment cost in Ząbki?
Approximate treatment prices at Moje Ząbki clinic (an exact quote is given after the examination):
Composite filling (1 surface) – from 250 PLN. Composite filling (2–3 surfaces) – from 300–450 PLN. Extensive tooth build-up – from 400–600 PLN. Root canal treatment of a single-rooted tooth – from 500–700 PLN. Root canal treatment of a multi-rooted tooth – from 700–1200 PLN. Medicated dressing – from 100–150 PLN. Periapical X-ray – from 40–60 PLN.
You can find our current prices on our website under the dental price list tab. We inform you of the costs before every procedure – no hidden fees.
Why choose Moje Ząbki clinic for your dental treatment?
Experienced team – our dentists have many years of experience in conservative dentistry and endodontics. Your treatment is in the hands of our team of specialists.
Comprehensive care – we offer dentistry and gynaecology in one place. Expectant mothers can book an appointment with a dentist and a gynaecologist on the same day.
Painless treatment – we use modern anaesthesia methods, including computer-controlled anaesthesia. We approach patients who are anxious about the dentist with particular empathy and patience.
Convenient location – our clinic is located in Ząbki at ul. Malczewskiego 13 lok. C, with easy access from Warsaw (15–20 minutes via the S8), Zielonka, Marki, Wołomin and Kobyłka. Parking is available nearby.
Frequently asked questions
Does treating tooth decay hurt?
No – we always perform the procedure under local anaesthesia. The only thing the patient may feel is a slight prick when the anaesthetic is given. For sensitive patients, we offer computer-controlled anaesthesia, which is even gentler.
How long does a composite filling last?
Modern composite fillings last 7–15 years on average, depending on their location, the size of the filling and the patient’s oral hygiene. Regular check-ups (every 6 months) make it possible to detect any leaks at an early stage.
Is a tooth dead after root canal treatment?
A tooth that has had root canal treatment no longer has pulp (a nerve), so it does not react to hot or cold. However, it is still “alive” in the sense that it is anchored in the bone and surrounded by the periodontal ligament. A properly treated and restored tooth can serve you for many years.
Is it better to have a root canal or to extract the tooth?
Whenever possible, we try to save the natural tooth. Root canal treatment is cheaper and less invasive than extraction followed by an implant or a denture. Extracting a tooth is a last resort – when the tooth is so damaged that it cannot be treated.
How often should I have a dental check-up?
We recommend check-ups every 6 months. Regular check-ups make it possible to detect decay at an early stage, when treatment is simple, quick and inexpensive. At Moje Ząbki clinic in Ząbki, the dental check-up is free of charge.
How do I get to Moje Ząbki clinic?
Our clinic is located in Ząbki at ul. Malczewskiego 13 lok. C (Masovian Voivodeship). The journey from Warsaw takes about 15–20 minutes (via the S8 or by public transport). Easy access from Zielonka, Marki, Wołomin and Kobyłka. Parking is available near the clinic.
Book an appointment: call the clinic or book online through our website.
Content prepared by the Moje Ząbki clinic team in Ząbki. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace an individual dental consultation.