An endodontist and a general dentist both provide expert dental care. However, their areas of focus are different. While an endodontist specializes in root canal treatments, a dentist performs various procedures, including fillings, crowns, and cleanings.
Knowing the difference between the two can help you decide whom to approach for specific dental care needs. This article will help you understand the differences between dentists and endodontists so that you can make an informed decision.
What is Endodontics Dentistry?
Endodontics originates from two Greek words: “endo,” which means “inside,” and “codons,” which means “tooth.” Combined, these words indicate the study of the inner part of the tooth or dental pulp.
The dental pulp is the innermost part of the tooth, containing blood vessels and nerves. It is protected by the enamel, the tooth’s outermost and most potent part. In cases of tooth decay, the enamel is damaged, exposing the dental pulp to infection. Since the pulp is rich in blood vessels and nerves, an infection can cause significant pain and sensitivity.
Endodontists are specially trained dentists who are trained to perform complex dental procedures, including root canals, to treat infection in the dental pulp. Apart from this, they also perform:
- Apicoectomy: This is performed when a root canal treatment is failed. It involves removing the tip of the root to prevent future infection.
- Traumatic injury treatment: This is performed to treat cracked or chipped teeth.
- Internal bleaching: This is performed to correct discoloration due to root canal treatment.
Dentist vs. Endodontist: Who is Better?
Both dentists and endodontists play vital roles in dental care, and your needs will determine which professional to see.
For instance, a general dentist handles routine checkups, cleanings, and minor dental procedures. If a dentist identifies a severe tooth infection or decay that reaches the dental pulp, they will refer you to an endodontist for specialized care.
If you’re wondering whether you should see a dentist or endodontist for root canal treatment, the answer is an endodontist. Endodontists have extensive training and experience in performing root canals.
While a general dentist may perform several root canal procedures weekly, an endodontist can execute multiple treatments daily due to their specialized training. This expertise provides higher success rates and more efficient procedures, making endodontists preferred for root canal treatments.
Can You Go Directly to an Endodontist?
While many specialists require a referral, you can often visit an endodontist directly under certain circumstances.
For example, you can visit an endodontist without a referral if you have a cracked tooth or a traumatic dental injury. The endodontist will perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, refer you to a general dentist for further care.
In addition, you can save a lot of time when you visit an endodontist directly.
For instance, if you are in extreme pain or suspect a problem with your dental pulp, you can directly visit a dentist or endodontist. The endodontist will immediately start treatment to save your teeth and relieve pain.
Dentist vs Endodontist: Who is More Expensive?
Since endodontists have more expertise and a higher level of training in performing root canals, they may charge more than general dentists. However, a root canal performed by an endodontist produces exceptional outcomes with higher success rates than a general dentist’s.
The advantages of visiting an endodontist include:
- Expert help with endodontic procedures.
- Use of advanced techniques such as operating microscopes for seamless results.
- Ability to shift strategies to make your treatment more comfortable.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between dentists and endodontists can clear many doubts about dental treatments. Both dentists and endodontists play a role in keeping your oral health in check.
In general, an endodontist can help if you have a cracked tooth or severe tooth infection that has reached the root. In such cases, a root canal may be required, which is the core expertise of an endodontist.
Osseo Family Dentistry is the home to the top Endodontists in Town.
Our endodontists have the knowledge and expertise you require, and they use the latest endodontic equipment. We specialize in treating tooth pain and performing root canal treatments. To learn more about us, schedule an appointment with us today.
You can also contact us at (763) 425-2626 or visit us at 30 Central Ave, Osseo, MN 55369.