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 endodontics, 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 the Definition of 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.”
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?
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 point 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.
Need an Endodontist in Ellicott City? Access Endodontics Can Help
When you need endodontic treatment in Ellicott City that you can depend on, reach out to Access Endodontics by calling 410.304.7226 or using our secure online form. Drs. Lina Jarboe and Burton Waxman will ensure that your experience in our practice is as comfortable as possible.