Who should you call if you need a root canal treatment for an infected tooth? Your first thought may be to visit a regular dentist, but in many cases, it may be more beneficial to see an endodontist instead. An endodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on performing root canals and other procedures involving the inside of the tooth. Here’s a closer look at what makes an endodontist different from a dentist.
Advanced Education
Both dentists and endodontists need to complete four years of dental school. However, endodontists need to go a step further and enroll in an advanced specialty program for an additional two to three years of education. During this program, endodontists learn about treating diseases involving the pulp of the teeth.
More Experience
The average general dentist will only perform about two root canal treatments weekly. Meanwhile, an endodontist will carry out the procedure around 25 times a week. In other words, endodontists are typically much more experienced when it comes to root canal treatments, which can make all the difference for particularly complex procedures.
Pain Management
Many people assume that root canal treatments are painful, but this does not have to be the case as long as the right measures are taken. Endodontists are experts in helping their patients stay as comfortable as possible while they receive the care they need. In fact, endodontists can even help patients who tend to have trouble getting numb.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Because they specialize in root canal treatments, endodontists make good use of technological advancements that help make the procedure more efficient and comfortable. For example, 3D imaging is often utilized so that the endodontist can get a better look inside the tooth to identify the root canals that will need to be sterilized.
Do You Need an Endodontist?
You may require an endodontist’s services if you’re suffering from an infection inside your tooth. Such an infection is often accompanied by the following symptoms:
- A toothache that does not go away.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods that lasts for a long time.
- A sharp pain that occurs when you bite down.
- Swollen or red gum tissue.
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth in question.
A general dentist can examine your tooth to determine if a root canal treatment is needed. If it is, it’s typically a good idea to see an endodontist as promptly as you can so that they can help you find relief from your pain and save your tooth from extraction.
About the Author
Dr. Jayson Hartman is the endodontic specialist at Cromer & Cairns Dental. He has been in the dental field for over 16 years. He is proud to offer precise and painless root canals so that he can help his patients get out of their discomfort. If you think you may need a root canal treatment and would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hartman at his practice in Vero Beach, visit his website or call (772) 562-5051.