An endodontist focuses on saving the teeth. Root canals are one of the procedures that these professionals do often. You may need a root canal if the pulp of a tooth has become damaged from an injury or decay. Read on to learn more about whether to choose a dentist or endodontist for this procedure.
General dentist vs. endodontist
All dentists, including general dentists, have received endodontic training during dental school. A general dentist can perform a root canal procedure, as well as a variety of other dental procedures. However, general dentists will often refer a patient who needs a root canal treatment to an endodontist.
On the other hand, an endodontist’s work is much more focused than that of a general dentist. This oral health care provider focuses on saving a patient’s teeth through a variety of different procedures. An endodontist has completed dental school as well as several more years of advanced training. This can include treating and diagnosing pain in the teeth.
According to the American Association of Endodontists, only three percent of all dentists are endodontists. Endodontic treatment focuses on saving the tooth rather than extracting it, and this is the goal of a root canal.
What is a root canal?
A root canal treatment’s goal is to remove bacteria from the root canal of the tooth and prevent the root canal from becoming infected again. This will save the tooth and prevent an extraction. The endodontist will remove the infected pulp from the root canal and clean the inside of the tooth. The endodontist will then fill the tooth so that it will remain strong.
Even though the pulp of the tooth is living, the tooth can remain strong without the pulp. The surrounding tissues will continue to nourish the tooth to keep it alive. The endodontist will fill the space with gutta-percha, which is a rubbery substance. This will keep the tooth from cracking when the patient eats. In some cases, the dentist will also add a crown on top of the tooth.
Choosing an endodontist
There are many advantages of choosing an endodontist for a root canal. Because the endodontist only does endodontic treatments, they will have more experience in root canal treatment than a general dentist will. An endodontist will do about 25 or more root canal treatments a week. This means that the endodontist will better be able to recognize any potential problems in the area. This can give the patient a better outcome from the surgery and result in faster healing time.
Visit an endodontist today
A root canal treatment today is a standard procedure. The endodontist will remove all of the infected pulp and replace it with a rubbery filling. By choosing the right dental professional to do this procedure, you can increase your chances of faster healing time. It is important to contact a dental professional if you are suffering from tooth pain.
Request an appointment here: https://www.sheats-endo.com or call Sheats Endodontic Group at (615) 526-2495 for an appointment in our Nashville office.
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