Dentistry in Poland

Dentistry, also known as oral medicine and dental medicine, is a branch of medicine that comprises the study, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders, diseases, and conditions of the teeth, supporting structures, and the soft tissue of the mouth. Although the field of dentistry is mainly associated with teeth among the general public, it is actually not limited to teeth but also encompasses the treatment and conditions of the jaws and oral cavity, such as cleft palate.

In addition to general practice, dentistry has a number of specialties and subspecialties, including:

• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics – this involves the straightening of teeth and the modification of midface and mandibular growth. While orthodontics involves the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics entails the guidance of facial growth and development, which mostly occur during childhood.
• Pediatric dentistry – also known as pedodontics, pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty dealing with the care of children’s teeth.
• Periodontics – this dental specialty is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the periodontal membrane, as well as related tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth.
• Prosthodontics – this dental specialty involves the restoration and maintenance of oral appearance, function, and comfort using prostheses, such as crowns. This specialty also provides oral prostheses to correct deformities, such as cleft palate.
• Endodontics – this involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp, as well as the surrounding tissues.
• Public health dentistry – this dental specialty’s primary concern is the prevention of dental decay and periodontal disease (disease of tissues that surrounds the teeth). On a larger scale, it involves the improvement of oral health in large populations.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery – this involves the extractions, implants, and surgery of the mouth, jaws, and face.
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology – this involves the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases.
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology – this involves the study, diagnosis, and, in some cases, treatments of oral and maxillofacial related diseases.
• Special needs dentistry – this specialty deals with dental treatments for those with developmental and acquired disabilities.
• Geriatric dentistry – also known as geriodontics, this specialty delivers dental care to older adults and involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of problems associated with age-related diseases.

Dental treatments are performed by a dental team, which usually consists of dentists and dental auxiliaries (dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental technicians, and dental therapists).

What does the Procedure Involve?

A range of medical and cosmetic procedures are used to diagnose and manage issues that affect the jaws, teeth, and oral cavity. The following are some of the most common dental procedures:

• Comprehensive examination – this type of procedure evaluates your overall oral health. A comprehensive dental exam typically includes dental evaluation, dental health assessment, bite and jaw examination, cavity check, restoration examination, teeth cleaning and stains removal, dental X-Rays, oral cancer screening, medications review, and a lesson on oral hygiene. A general dentist will discuss with you your current oral health, including your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and any other oral health problems they may have seen through the examination. If any potential issues are found, your dentist will give you their prevention recommendations.
• Routine cleanings – this type of procedure is carried out to remove the buildup of tartar and bacteria that accumulate in between your teeth and gums. Routine mouth cleaning is important to maintain good oral health.
• Dental bonding – this procedure is used to repair decayed, chipped, discolored, or fractured teeth, as well as to reduce gaps between teeth. It can also be used to build up older teeth in order to make them appear younger. The goal of the procedure is to improve a person’s smile. During this procedure, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin to your teeth. Then, the resin is hardener under an ultraviolet laser or light. Afterward, the resin material is shaped and polished to ensure the result looks natural and smooth.
• Braces – a dental brace is a device used to correct crooked or misaligned teeth. It can improve the health and appearance of your smile. It works by exerting steady pressure over time to gradually move your teeth into alignment.
• Crowns and caps – a dental crown or cap is a tooth-shaped cover that is placed over a decayed, broken, badly stained, or misshaped tooth to improve its size, shape, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns can be made of porcelain fused to metal, metal, ceramic, or resin. Before a crown is placed, the existing tooth is filed down. Then, the crown is applied over it using special cement, thus fully encasing the tooth. The whole process is usually performed under local anesthetic.
• Bridges – Dental bridges are used to close (or bridge) the gaps in your teeth if you have missing teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth held in place by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. It can be made from a wide variety of materials, even gold. However, dental bridges are typically made from porcelain to make it blend in with your natural teeth.
• Implants – Dental implants are replacement tooth roots made of titanium that provide a strong foundation for the attachment of removable or permanent crowns. It is done to replace damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants can look and function much like real teeth. The process of placing a dental implant can be done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
• Extractions – a severely damaged tooth due to excessive tooth decay or tooth infection that cannot be saved needs to be pulled out. Tooth extractions may also be done to resolve crowding, as well as for those who get braces. Tooth extraction procedure can be simple or surgical, depending on the state of your tooth. Simple tooth extraction is usually performed under local anesthetic, while surgical tooth extraction may involve general anesthesia.
• Dentures – dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They can be complete or partial. Partial dentures are used when some of your natural teeth still remain, while complete dentures are used when all of your teeth are missing.
• Gum surgery – mostly known as periodontal surgery, this type of procedure is often required to treat certain gum conditions and diseases, such as periodontitis or gingivitis. Its goal is to treat the gum disease and any damage it may have caused.
• Filling and repairs – to treat a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth can be removed and then “filled.” Fillings can also be done to repair broken or cracked teeth.
• Veneers – Dental veneers are custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can change the color, size, shape, and length of your teeth to improve your appearance. It can be made from resin composite or porcelain. However, the most popular material is porcelain as they look more natural than composite veneers.
• Root canals – this procedure is done to repair and save a tooth that becomes infected or badly decayed. The root canal procedure involves removing the pulp and nerve from a tooth. The inside of your tooth is then cleaned and sealed. This procedure can prevent the tissue that surrounds the tooth from being infected.

How Long Should I Stay in Poland?

Your length of stay depends on the type of procedure you get. For most dental procedures, you can leave the clinic or hospital on the same day. However, if you undergo a surgical procedure, then you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Note that most dental procedures require multiple appointments to complete. Therefore, although you can leave the hospital on the same day, you may need to stay in Poland for several days or weeks until all of your appointment is completed. In some cases, you may need two separate travel to Poland.

What's the Recovery Time?

Recovery time can be different from one person to another, depending on the procedure you undergo, the reason you need the procedure, and your general health. Your dentist will give you a recovery timeline, which includes the time frame when you can go back to work, resume your normal routine, and perform vigorous activities, such as exercise.

What About Aftercare?

Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions that you will need to follow. The instructions may include diet, restrictions, and how to care for the treated area. You may feel some discomfort and pain for the first few days and your dentist may prescribe pain medications. Make sure to take the medications as instructed.

To maintain the result of your procedure, it is important that you practice good oral hygiene. Always brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash every day. It is also important that you have dental examinations regularly. In addition, you need to avoid damaging habits, such as biting your nails or chewing hard items.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of dentistry is constantly improving and advancing. Experienced and skilled dentists should be able to provide high success rates for the procedures they perform. Still, risks and side effects are possible. These include nerve injury, infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding structures. To avoid these risks and side effects, make sure to choose a certified dentist with proven track records.

Are there Alternatives to Dentistry?

Any problems in your jaw, teeth, and oral cavity are diagnosed, treated, and prevented by the practice of dentistry. Therefore, there are no other alternatives than to see your dentist. However, if your problem is found to be caused by other diseases, your dentist may refer you to the relevant doctors.

Dentistry in and around Poland

About Poland

Poland, as one of Central Europe's most expansive nations, has only recently begun to make its mark as a key player in the realm of Medical Tourism. Being particularly appealing to tourists from neighboring regions, many visitors arrive seeking Dentistry procedures. Poland's open border policy further simplifies travel between its territory and other countries within the European Union (EU), making it an accessible destination for many.

The Polish healthcare system comprises a blend of public and private establishments. While none of these facilities hold JCI accreditation, they are endorsed by local accreditations issued by the Polish Ministry of Health. Their recognition within the European Union testifies to the quality and reliability of these certifying bodies.

In Poland, the most frequently sought-after medical procedures encompass dental, cosmetic, orthopedic, and bariatric treatments. Impressively, the costs of these treatments are significantly lower than what one would expect to pay in Poland's Western European counterparts. Beyond Poland's vibrant capital, Warsaw, cities such as Krakow, Jelenia Gora, and Wroclaw have emerged as favored destinations among medical tourists.

Popular Parts of Poland

Poland, with a population exceeding 38.5 million, is a nation steeped in rich history and recognized for its whopping fourteen UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Despite frequently being overshadowed in the realm of tourism, the country in reality, boasts of a multitude of alluring attractions waiting to be explored and appreciated.

• Warsaw, Poland’s capital provides tourists with a mix of old and new. Restored Gothic buildings and modern glass structures stand side by side. The city offers a scenic view. Wander around the streets of Old Town to see the oldest part of the city. Warsaw was also the former home of Frederic François Chopin; tourists can retrace his steps by visiting Saxon Garden, where Chopin’s family used to live next door.
• Krakow is Poland’s former capital. The city is full of charms; from cobbled streets, beautiful squares, pretty buildings, churches, and a castle. Wawel Castle, located in the Old Town area, is an architectural wonder with medieval, baroque, and renaissance style. The city has numerous museums that provide insights into its fascinating history.
• Gdansk stands as one of the country's most breathtaking seaside cities. It houses some of the finest museums in Poland and is renowned for its thriving nightlife and diverse culinary scene. Visitors are encouraged to admire the vibrant street art, delve into history at the numerous museums, explore the charms of the Old Town, and embark on a gastronomic adventure with a food tour in Gdynia. In a nutshell, Gdansk offers a rich and memorable travel experience.
• Poznan will amaze tourists once they see its vibrant, playful, and unique treasures. As the birthplace of the Polish nation, the city offers many historical attractions as well as urban green spaces. Tour the Lech Brewery to learn more about the brewing process of beer visit the Old Market Square and find an array of bars and food stalls.
• Wroclaw is not as popular as other cities in Poland. It’s actually full of attractions, incredible architecture, and hidden gems. Tourists will find dwarf statues throughout the city and can go on the dwarf trail. Market Square is the city’s centerpiece that blends colorful buildings and gives a scenic view, especially in winters.

Weather and Climate in Poland

Poland has a temperate climate and sometimes experiences rough weather. Spring starts in late March to May. The season is characterized by a wave of warmer weather with less frequent rain. It is one of the best times to visit Poland because the temperature is comfortable.

Poland's summer season extends from June until August and brings with it a certain unpredictability in weather patterns. The general climate is warm, with temperatures hovering between 18 to 30°C. Amidst sunny spells and elevated temperatures, frequent rain showers and storms are also common phenomena. This period marks the peak of the tourism season and tourists can expect prices to see a corresponding increase. Despite the occasional rains, summer promises a delightful time to experience Poland in all its warmth.

September to November is Autumn, the season where the temperature starts to drop. Late September and October are still warm, while November is cold and wet. Sunny days during this season are known as “Polish Golden Autumn.”

Winter in Poland, which runs from December until early March, can be exceedingly cold. Temperatures often tumble to an average range of 0 to -10°C and can even drop as low as -20°C. Despite the chilly conditions, this is actually the peak season for mountain ski resorts, attracting numerous enthusiasts to take advantage of Poland's picturesque winter landscapes.

Getting Around in Poland

Most international flights arrive at Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport. It’s Poland’s largest and busiest airport. The airport serves domestic and has International connections with many cities around the world. It is the hub for LOT Polish Airlines. Budget airlines such as Wizz Air and EasyJet also operate flights from this airport. There is a smaller airport, Warsaw Modlin Airport, which handles more budget airlines.

To get to the city center, bus, taxi, and train are available. There are five public buses that stop at Warsaw’s city center; bus 175, bus 188, bus 148, bus 331, and bus N32 (night bus). Taxis are available, but always make sure to use licensed taxi services. The fare from the airport to the city center is around 40 PLN. Chopin Airport is linked to Legionowo and Sulejówek Miłosna by a railway service. Tourists can buy ZTM tickets to ride the bus and train which can be purchased at the Passenger Information Point in the arrivals hall, ticket machines at bus stops and train station entrance, or from bus drivers.

Ample public transportation options simplify getting around in Poland. Trains, in particular, offer an incredibly budget-friendly means of travel. For instance, the journey from Krakow to Warsaw is set to cost approximately 45 PLN and spans a duration of around three hours. Meanwhile, a slightly longer five-hour train journey from Warsaw to Gdansk can be undertaken at a reasonable fare of around 65 PLN. Such connectivity and affordability make exploration within Poland both easy and economical.

Within the cities, local buses in the central zone cost around 4 PLN (a single-fare ticket). Major cities offer one-day tickets for 20 PLN. Taxis are relatively cheap and tourists can get around the city quickly. Taxis are metered and usually start at around 6 PLN to 8 PLN. Unlicensed taxi drivers are most likely to cheat and charge more. There are taxis that put a fake phone number in their cars, be careful and ask your hotel staff for the number of the taxi company they have used previously. Cycling is a good way to explore the scenery in Poland. There are many bike rentals around the country, always be aware of drivers since some are careless.

For cities like Krakow, tourists are highly recommended to secure tourist cards. These cards provide unlimited access to public transportation for a period of one to three days. In addition, they also offer free or discounted admission to several museums. This is a great bargains that grants tourists flexibility and sizable savings to fully relish their visit.

Tourist Visas in Poland

Poland is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, and several other countries do not need to obtain a visa and can stay in Poland for up to 90 days. EU citizens do not need a visa and can stay indefinitely. Other nationalities must check with their local Polish embassy. All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months.

Additional Information about Visa in Poland:

• It is important to note that the visa requirements for Poland can change at any time, so it is always best to check with the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel.
• If you are planning to stay in Poland for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. You can do this at the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country.
• When applying for a visa, you will need to provide a number of documents, including a valid passport, proof of travel insurance, and proof of financial means.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: the official currency is the Polish złoty (PLN). 1 USD converts to 4.21 PLN.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are available in cities and towns; even small villages should have at least one. The best way to exchange rates is at banks or withdrawing money from ATMs. Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted in most hotels and restaurants. Always carry small cash and coins for shops and cafes. Tipping in Poland is mostly optional. In restaurants, 10% is the standard. Room-service staff and porters in hotels expect to be tipped. Taxis don’t expect tips.
3. Local Language: The official language is Polish. Most of the locals in the tourist areas will have decent English. Foreign tourists should be aware that all official information including street signs and directions are only written in Polish.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Christianity is the largest religion in Poland with 87.5% of the population identified as Roman Catholic.
5. Public Holidays: Poland celebrates major Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter. The country hosts many festivals throughout the year such as St. Dominik’s Fair every July to August, Light & Move Festival every October, and Ice Festival every December.