Conservative dentistry in Madrid: fillings and root canals

For us, conservative or restorative dentistry is a philosophy: preserving and restoring your natural teeth because of their importance to the look and function of your smile.

We prevent, diagnose and treat dental problems, always favouring techniques that extend the life of your teeth and avoid extractions.

Conservative dentistry treatments

Fillings

Decay is caused by bacteria that release acids when they metabolise sugars and starches, eroding enamel. Left untreated it reaches deeper layers of the tooth.

With a filling we remove the damaged tissue and restore the tooth with high-quality, natural-looking materials.

Rotary root canal treatment

When decay has reached the dental pulp, we use rotary endodontics: high-precision rotary instruments that clean and shape the canals more efficiently and less invasively, reducing discomfort and recovery time.

What is a root canal and when is it needed?

It is the treatment that cleans, disinfects and seals the inside of the canals of a tooth whose pulp (the nerve) is inflamed or infected, usually because of deep decay, a fracture or a blow. It allows the tooth to be kept instead of extracted. The UK's NHS adds that, if an infected pulp is not treated, the tooth may end up having to be taken out.

It is needed when there is persistent pain, sensitivity to cold or heat that does not go away, pain on biting, swelling or a tooth that is darkening. Only an examination and an X-ray confirm whether it is necessary.

Does a root canal hurt?

It is done under local anaesthetic, so it should not hurt during treatment. According to the UK's NHS it usually takes two or more appointments of between 1 and 2 hours, and the area may be swollen and sore, which should improve within a couple of weeks; the actual number of appointments depends on each tooth. It is normal for the tooth to be tender when biting for a few days afterwards, and the usual painkillers we advise are generally enough.

The tooth often needs a reconstruction or a crown afterwards to protect it, because it is more fragile than a tooth with a nerve. If the pain increases or swelling appears in the following days, let us know.

When can a tooth be fixed with a filling?

If the cavity or fracture is small or medium-sized, a composite filling is usually enough. If a lot of structure has been lost, a larger reconstruction, an inlay or a crown is needed, because a large filling can break.

We assess this with the examination and the X-ray, and we always try to keep as much healthy tooth as possible.