While all endodontists are technically dentists, did you know that less than 3% of dentists are endodontists? Continue reading to learn more about some of the key differences between general dentists and endodontists, along with a few reasons why there’s perhaps no better choice than an endodontist when it comes to something like root canal treatment.
Dentists vs. Endodontists: Similar but Different
All general dentists must attend dental school for several years to gain the experience, knowledge, and expertise needed to perform various types of treatment. However, following dental school, most of these newly ordained dentists don’t stop there; they continue advancing their education and specializing in different fields within dentistry. Some go on to focus on cosmetic dentistry, which is all about improving a smile’s aesthetics. Others become interested in fields that specialize in tooth replacement (prosthodontics), gum disease treatment (periodontics), and so on.
However, endodontics is another possible choice; these dentists have undergone specialized training in treating conditions that specifically affect the tooth roots and the interior of the tooth. After all, the prefix “endo” does stand for “inside” or “within.” These experts excel when it comes to root canal cases, endodontic surgery, and treating traumatic dental injuries. For this reason, endodontists are often referred to as true specialists in saving teeth!
Should I See a Dentist or an Endodontist for a Root Canal?
Both general dentists and endodontists are indeed capable of performing root canals, but is the latter profession the best option for this treatment? In most cases, the answer is yes, an endodontist is going to be more skilled in providing treatment and better at diagnosing root canals than a general dentist; these procedures are their bread and butter! The advantages of choosing an endodontist for this tooth-saving procedure include:
- Root canal treatment is perhaps the most common procedure performed by endodontists; an endodontist may perform the same number of root canals in one week that a general dentist performs in a few months or even a year!
- An endodontist is more likely to invest in top-of-the-line equipment that specifically benefits root canal treatment, including diagnostic pulp testers and high-powered microscopes.
- Studies show that patients who visit an endodontist for a root canal are far less likely to need retreatment in the future; plus, the procedure can often be completed in a single visit, rather than two.
Dental pain isn’t something that you should ever have to needlessly endure – and if this pain is due to your tooth’s interior, it isn’t going to go away on its own. Trusting a skilled endodontist to handle the issue can ensure that you’re quickly back to smiling happily and healthily!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Nisha Mehta and Dr. Tam Trinh, the team at MeTa Endodontics has proudly served the needs of patients in Deerfield and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of endodontic services, including root canal treatment. If you or a loved one is in need of this treatment, rest assured, you’re in the most capable hands! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up an appointment, please reach out online or call today for information or assistance. Telephone: (847) 200-8641.