In the world of oral health, there are general dentists, who focus on assessing, diagnosing, treating, and managing patients’ overall dental health, and there are dental specialists, who are experts in specific areas of oral health.
One type of dental specialist is an endodontist. Endodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the diseases of the soft tissue inside the tooth, also known as the dental pulp. While general dentists treat endodontic issues as well, there are differences between the two professions. Here are a few of them:
Education
Like general dentists, endodontists are dentists who went through college and dental school. However, they also underwent two or three extra years of education in a specialty program to focus on studying how to treat diseases of the dental pulp.
Expertise
Through their extra education and years of focus on one area, endodontists become experts in their specialty. For example, one of the more common endodontic procedures is the root canal. General dentists may do a few of them here or there, but endodontists complete them day after day. Since they don’t have to focus on anything else, they can dedicate themselves to diagnosing issues with the dental pulp. General dentists may refer patients to endodontists for that reason.
Special Equipment
Endodontists will have special equipment that general dentists may not have access to. They’ll also have 3-D imaging and digital radiographs to better view root canals and other infections as well as operating microscopes to see inside root canals during treatment.
Pain Management
One of the surest signs that you should see an endodontist is unexplained, consistent tooth pain. Endodontists can more accurately diagnose tooth pain, sensitivity, and other issues affecting the tooth root and recommend the best treatment option.
If you’re in need of endodontic work in Bakersfield, CA, the Center for Implant Dentistry is the place to go. The Center for Implant Dentistry houses multiple dental specialists, including an endodontist, and is open on weekends. Schedule an appointment today!