If you need to have endodontic treatment, such as a root canal, it’s important to find an endodontist you trust and who you’re comfortable with. Your dentist can make a referral for you, or you can use other types of research to be sure your endodontist is experienced and qualified for the specific treatment you require.
What Does an Endodontist Do?
An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating the tooth pulp, which is the soft interior of your tooth. A regular dentist focuses on the outer layers—the enamel and dentin—that help protect the pulp from damage and infection. If the outer layers are cracked, broken, or compromised due to decay, the pulp is left vulnerable and can become infected. Infection in the tooth pulp can cause:
- Persistent toothache
- Extreme sensitivity
- Headaches
- Discomfort in the jaw
Infection can also spread from the pulp to other teeth or into the facial bones or sinuses.
An endodontist removes the infected tissue and thoroughly cleans the tooth’s interior. The most common way to accomplish this is through a root canal procedure. Endodontists also perform work such as root resections, which removes infected nerve tissue, or place fillings in the tips of the tooth roots to prevent spread of infection.
Choosing an Endodontist
Before you have a root canal or other endodontic procedure, it’s important to find a qualified endodontist you can trust. If you need a particular type of work done, look for a dentist who has experience with that procedure and who has undergone specific, ongoing training. If you need very specialized work, it’s even more important to be sure your chosen dentist has had extensive experience and training.
The easiest way to find an endodontist is to ask for referrals. Your regular dentist will probably recommend an endodontist he has worked with in the past. You can also ask friends and family if they’ve had a good experience with a particular endodontist. Finding the right endodontist will help you feel more comfortable and confident about your dental work.
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to call our knowledgeable staff today!
