What Is An Endodontist?

What Exactly Is An Endodontist?

And Why Do I Need To See One?

An endodontist is one of the recognized dental specialists. After obtaining a dental degree, individuals typically require 2-3 additional years of training to become an endodontist. Furthermore, whereas a general dentist provides ongoing preventative care and minor repairs, an endodontist primarily treats the tooth’s interior. Patients are often referred to these specialists when they have an infected tooth.

What’s Inside A Tooth?

Your teeth might seem like inert bones, but they are very much alive! Inside, they contain blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerves—collectively called the “pulp.” When the pulp becomes irritated or infected, it swells and creates the uncomfortable pressure commonly associated with a toothache.

How Does Infection Occur?

Teeth can become irritated through many common occurrences. A blow or trauma to the tooth, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or tooth grinding (bruxism) can all result in a temporary toothache. However, when a tooth becomes infected, it’s almost always due to an untreated cavity or a tooth fracture that exposes the vulnerable tooth interior. And that’s when seeing an endodontist becomes crucial.

What Treatment Does An Endodontist Provide?

When irreversible infection is present, the prescribed treatment is root canal therapy. Many patients mistakenly think a root canal is a painful or exhausting process. In truth, it is actually all about pain relief. Plus, since extraction is the only alternative treatment, it is an essential procedure to save the tooth!

First, we open the pulp chamber and remove the infection. Next, the entire root canal system is cleaned and prepared. Finally, we use a biocompatible material to fill the tooth interior and seal the root canal.

If you are looking for an endodontist or have any related questions about tooth infections or root canals, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.