If you’ve recently been referred for endodontic treatment in Howard County, you might have questions relating to what to expect during your appointment, or even what an endodontist does.
These are fair questions, and important ones to have answered prior to your initial visit. We’ve created this quick and easy guide, complete with defining what endodontics means, as well as some of the most significant details regarding this specialty. If you have any anxiety about your upcoming endodontics appointment, continue reading.
If you need endodontic treatment in the Ellicott City area or have questions about the health of your teeth, call Drs. Lina Jarboe and Burton Waxman at Access Endodontics today at 410.304.7226!
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals specifically with the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the tooth’s roots. Dental pulp is the collection of connective tissue, cells, and blood vessels that can be found inside the tooth. The name “endodontics” derives from the Greek words “endo,” which means “inside,” and “odont,” which means “tooth.”
If you’ve been wondering, “What does endodontics mean?”—this specialty is all about diagnosing and treating problems within the inner structures of the teeth, especially the root canal system.
Why would my dentist refer me to an endodontist?
When your dentist refers you to an endodontist, it’s because there’s an issue involving your dental pulp or a tooth with a complex root canal system. The issue is beyond the skillset of your dentist, and they have determined that you need the specialized care that they are unable to provide. An endodontist has rigorous training in their area of expertise and can use advanced procedures and specialized technology to save teeth that may have been otherwise unable to be saved.
Becoming an endodontist requires additional schooling, beyond what is required for a general dentist. On top of the four years in dental school that they must complete, an endodontist must also spend two to three years in a post-grad residency. They may also take an exam to become a certified member of the American Board of Endodontics. When your dentist sends you to an endodontist, it’s because they want you to get the best care possible for your teeth.
What does an endodontist do? Common endodontic services
Endodontists often begin their careers in general dentistry to perform the typical tasks that a dentist might. More often than not, their main priority is addressing issues with infected teeth, usually through root canals, but that’s not all they do.
Below are some of the main reasons why you might go to an endodontist.
Diagnose tooth pain
When your regular dentist can’t find the source of your tooth pain, they may refer you to an endodontist to determine the issue. Their special knowledge and ability to use powerful technology can help diagnose the pain and provide a solution.
Save your teeth
If you’re looking for an endodontics definition in three words or less, “save your teeth” is the closest you’ll find. The goal of all dentists is to preserve, beautify, and save your teeth, but an endodontist really specializes in that last one. They can perform procedures to salvage severely damaged or decayed teeth or teeth that have suffered dental trauma.
Root canals
This is the most common treatment that an endodontist will provide. They are experts at performing root canals and often treat severe or complex cases that other dentists cannot. This is one of the core endodontic services patients may require when facing serious tooth infections or nerve damage.
By seeking care from an endodontist, patients can ensure they receive specialized treatment tailored to preserving their natural teeth. Their expertise and advanced techniques make a significant difference in achieving successful outcomes for complex dental issues.
Need an endodontist in Ellicott City? Access Endodontics can help
When you’re facing dental pain, infection, or trauma, knowing what an endodontist does can make all the difference in getting the right treatment quickly. At Access Endodontics in Ellicott City, Drs. Lina Jarboe and Burton Waxman are committed to providing the highest standard of endodontic care using the latest technology and a compassionate approach.
Don’t wait for pain to get worse—call 410.304.7226 or connect with us online today to schedule your consultation or learn more about our full range of endodontic services. Whether you’ve been referred or just want a second opinion, Access Endodontics is here to help you protect your natural smile.