If your dentist refers you to an endodontist, you might wonder why a specialist is necessary. Both are dental professionals, but their training and daily focus are different.
The difference between a dentist and an endodontist comes down to specialization.
What is an endodontist?
An endodontist is a dentist who completes additional years of training focused on diagnosing tooth pain and treating problems inside the tooth. Endodontic treatment centers on the pulp and root canal system. The field of endodontics focuses specifically on preserving natural teeth through procedures that treat internal infection or damage.
Endodontists spend most of their time performing procedures that address infection, inflammation, and trauma involving the inside of the tooth.
What does an endodontist do?
Specialists like Dr. Lina Jarboe perform several types of endodontic procedures. These treatments are often recommended when a tooth issue cannot be resolved with routine restorative care alone.
Root canal therapy
Root canal therapy removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth. The canals are disinfected and sealed to prevent reinfection. The detailed steps involved in root canal therapy illustrate how the procedure protects the remaining tooth structure.
Endodontic retreatment
Sometimes a tooth that had a root canal years ago develops new symptoms. Endodontic retreatment involves reopening the tooth, removing previous filling material, and cleaning the canals again.
Apicoectomy
When infection persists at the tip of the root, an apicoectomy may be performed to remove infected tissue and seal the root.
Dental trauma treatment
Injuries from sports or accidents can damage the pulp or root. Specialized evaluation and dental trauma treatment help preserve the natural tooth whenever possible.
Dr. Lina Jarboe performs both nonsurgical and surgical endodontic procedures and often works closely with referring dentists to coordinate care.
When should you see an endodontist?
Your general dentist may recommend a specialist if you have persistent tooth pain, a complex molar root canal, a failed prior treatment, or dental trauma involving the pulp.
Signs that indicate it may be time to see an endodontist often involve infection, inflammation, or complicated root anatomy.
Searching for an “endodontist near me” usually means you are dealing with pain or have been advised to seek advanced care. In many cases, specialist evaluation improves efficiency and long-term outcomes.
Why your dentist might refer you to an endodontist
Referrals are a routine part of coordinated dental care. General dentists manage a wide range of treatments. When a case involves complicated root anatomy, persistent infection, or surgical needs, a referral allows for focused expertise.
The value of having an endodontist on your oral care team becomes clear in more complex cases.
Endodontists play an important role in overall dental health. At Access Endodontics, Dr. Lina Jarboe provides advanced imaging, magnification, and specialized techniques designed to treat the inside of the tooth with precision.
If your dentist has referred you to Access, scheduling an evaluation can help clarify the next step in your treatment plan. Call 410.304.7226 or reach out online to get started.