As someone completes dental school, they need to determine what path to follow. Some choose to pursue endodontics. You may wonder what an endodontist does if you’ve been referred to one by your family dentist.
Endodontists and dentists are both professionals who specialize in maintaining oral health. However, there are striking differences between the two practices.
Dentistry and Endodontics: What Is the Difference?
The dentist you visit for your annual or semi-annual appointments usually practice general dentistry or family dentistry.
It may help to think of a dentist as being similar to a general practitioner in medicine. They can diagnose and treat various ailments, and they’re usually the first person you contact when you have a problem.
At times, some issues require specialized education and experience. If you have a dental problem beyond the scope of what your primary dentist does, they may refer you to a specialist. For example, an endodontist.
What is an Endodontist?
Many patients’ “first-time” experience with an endodontist occurs when their dentist recommends a root canal. An endodontist has received specialized training on the tooth’s interior and the tooth pulp. There are many services an endodontist performs beyond just root canals, they also treat infections and help with pain management. They will even deal with injuries to the tooth if they find the tooth to be compromised, or damage to the tooth’s nerves.
What is tooth pulp? The term “tooth pulp” almost makes it seem like there’s just some soft tissue inside each tooth. A tooth actually contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The tooth pulp may become inflamed or infected in the event of an injury or deep tooth decay.
Endodontics or Dentistry: Who Do I See?
Generally, your dentist will let you know if you need to see an endodontist. They have the experience and knowledge to recognize when a problem with a tooth needs special care. If you have questions or concerns, you can always ask your dentist if they think you need to see an endodontist.
Why Does My Dentist Do Root Canals?
This doesn’t mean that dentistry and endodontics are the same. Your dentist may have done a root canal for you in-house without referring you to an endodontist. This may have happened for the following reasons. First, in some cases, your dentist may do the root canal if it’s in a tooth with a relatively simple root structure, and they are confident they can do the procedure.
Your dentist may have undergone additional training giving them a more comprehensive understanding of root canals. Or, they may have an in-office endodontist who performs the service.
What Kind of Training Does an Endodontist Receive?
Like dentists, endodontists complete dental school, many even practicing dentistry for some time before becoming endodontists. To become an endodontist, the doctor must attend school for an additional two or three years. During this time, they study different diseases of the tooth pulp and how those should be treated.
Contact Access Endodontics Today
Now you know the difference between endodontics and dentistry. So, if you are referred to an endodontist, your appointment will be somewhat different from your dentist appointments.
Unlike your dentist, the staff at Access Endodontics won’t clean your teeth or do other routine work. Instead, they will review your X-rays and other referral documents and discuss a treatment plan with you. They will focus on restoring tooth functionality, eradicating infection, and dealing with pain. If you need a root canal, schedule a consultation with Access Endodontics today by calling us at 410.304.7226.