What is an endodontist vs dentist?

Endodontists and general dentists both provide dental care but do different things. An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on performing root canals. While a dentist does multiple things, such as cleaning teeth, filling cavities and placing sealants, endodontists do one thing — treat tooth pain.

What do endodontists do?

An endodontist is a highly trained dental specialist. Endodontists focus on caring for complex tooth problems that primarily affect the tooth pulp (the inside of teeth). They use advanced techniques to treat the dental pulp and root tissues.

Do endodontists just do root canals?

Does this mean that only endodontists can perform root canals? Absolutely not! General dentists are skilled in performing root canal therapy and have the tools and training required for successfully completing most procedures.

What procedures do endodontist perform?

Endodontic Treatments and Procedures

  • Root canal treatment.
  • Endodontic retreatment.
  • Endodontic surgery.
  • Traumatic dental injuries.
  • Dental implants.

Why do dentists refer to endodontists?

Why Would a Dentist Refer You to an Endodontist? If the infected tooth has a complex root canal system—which is frequently an issue with multi-rooted teeth like molars or premolars—dentists may refer their patient to an endodontist.

Why would my dentist send me to an endodontist?

Can an endodontist do a root canal through a crown?

So that brings us back to the central question–can a root canal be done through an existing crown? Sometimes the answer is yes. In those cases, the procedure is performed just like a standard root canal, with the damaged tissue and tooth being removed and the drilled hole sealed.

Why did my dentist refer me to an endodontist?

Severe cavities For larger cavities, however, a filling is not sufficient to protect the tooth. In this case, the dentist will refer the person to an endodontist. This dentist has the knowledge and training to perform a root canal. Without timely intervention, the dentist may have to extract the tooth.

What type of patients are treated in Endodontics?

Endodontic procedures include every treatment involving the inner tissues of the teeth, otherwise known as the pulp or nerve. The word “endodontic” is derived from two stems: “endo,” meaning inside, and “odont,” meaning tooth.

Can a normal dentist do a root canal?

As far as root canal therapy, most general dentists are more than capable of performing these types of procedures. They go through extensive dental training in order to know how to treat root canals. Some dentist’s offices, however, may not have the necessary equipment to do a root canal.

What are the signs of needing a root canal?

Root canal symptoms

  • Persistent pain. Persistent tooth pain is one of the signs that you may need a root canal.
  • Sensitivity to heat and cold.
  • Tooth discoloration.
  • Swollen gums.
  • Pain when you eat or touch the tooth.
  • A chipped or cracked tooth.
  • Tooth mobility.

Do you need a crown when you get a root canal?

The need for a crown is typically determined by the amount of remaining tooth structure after a root canal. Generally, if more than half of the tooth is gone, a crown is indicated to restore the tooth’s structural integrity.