FAQ About Endodontists

If you’ve ever had a root canal or other advanced dental care, you may have received care from an endodontist. Have you wondered what an endodontist does, and how they differ from dentists? Here are some questions and answers about this dental specialty.

Q. What Is an Endodontist?

An endodontist specializes in treating the dental pulp, which is the inner section of each tooth. They also treat the tissue that surrounds each tooth. The word comes from the Greek word “endo,” meaning inside, and “odont,” meaning tooth. Endodontics involves the treatment of tissue and pulp.

Endodontists perform root canals and other treatments that involve the pulp and tissue. Most people visit an endodontist to get treatments their regular dentist can’t perform. Endodontists consider themselves specialists in saving teeth.

Q. What Is the Difference Between an Endodontist and a Dentist?

All endodontists are dentists, but only three percent of dentists are endodontists.

An endodontist is a dentist who has received specialized training. To become an endodontist, a dentist must complete two additional years of education and training after completing four years of dental school. This training focuses on diagnosing tooth pain and treating root canals.

Do They Only Perform Root Canals?

A dentist can perform a basic root canal, but only an endodontist can perform complex root canals that require special techniques. They perform endodontic surgery, bone graft surgery, and other procedures to save teeth after dental trauma.

Most dentists can perform basic root canals, but only an endodontist can manage a complex case involving the pulp and tissues.

Q. When Should You See an Endodontist?

In most cases, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist for advanced care when the pulp of your tooth has been infected. If you need a root canal or other specialized treatment, ask your dentist for a referral to a trusted specialist.

If you have experienced tooth pain, extreme sensitivity to heat and cold, dental trauma, or swelling around your teeth, you may need endodontic treatment.

Q. What Treatments Does an Endodontist Treat?

They primarily perform root canals. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), a typical endodontist performs about 25 root canals a year, but a dentist only performs about three.

This clinical experience gives them enormous, detailed knowledge about the treatments. When you consult an endodontist for treatment, you are consulting someone with extensive experience and knowledge.

Talk To Your Dentist About Endodontic Care

Do you need a root canal or other endodontic treatment? If you think you do, consult your dentist for a referral. At Malan Family Dentistry, we can refer you to experts in all dental specialties. Make an appointment to see us today.