What is an Endodontist Marietta, GA
You may be vaguely familiar with the term "endodontics" but unclear about exactly what this field of dentistry entails. While many general dentists perform endodontic procedures, an endodontist is a specialized dentist with additional training. General dentists and endodontists work together to help manage tooth pain.
General dentists also make referrals to endodontists. The American Academy of Endodontists (AAE) reports that general dentists typically refer about half of their patients in need of root canals to an endodontist. Our team at Happy Dental and Orthodontics in Marietta and the surrounding area can provide more information on endodontic care and possible services you may need.
Call us at (770) 200-4034 to learn more.
Endodontist Expertise and Qualifications
An endodontist is a professional who has graduated from a four-year dental school and then receives two to three additional years of training in the field of endodontics. Endodontics is a field that focuses on the tooth pulp, also known as the dental pulp, which is the soft material inside of a tooth that includes connective tissue and the tooth's nerve roots.
When a tooth is severely decayed or traumatized, bacteria can enter the space inside the tooth (or the pulp chamber) and infect the tooth pulp, causing pain. An endodontist is highly skilled at identifying where tooth pain is coming from, helping manage problems that arise in the tooth pulp, and performing procedures that effectively save the teeth.
“The tooth pulp, also known as the dental pulp, is the soft material inside of a tooth and includes connective tissue and the tooth’s nerve roots.”
Endodontist vs. General Dentist
Even though endodontists and general dentists can perform endodontic treatments, endodontists can do more than general dentists because of their specialized training. Take, for example, the most common procedure that an endodontist performs: a root canal. In this procedure, the damaged pulp gets removed from the inside of the tooth, the pulp chamber gets cleaned extensively, and the area gets sealed off to prevent further decay. A general dentist typically performs only basic root canal procedures.
However, an endodontist can perform much more complicated root canals and can even remove parts of the tooth surgically, if necessary. An endodontist also typically has more specialized tools and methods for performing root canals and may use more sophisticated forms of local anesthesia. Additionally, since endodontists perform a higher volume of root canals than a general dentist, they have a wealth of experience in troubleshooting during the procedure.
“An endodontist also typically has more specialized tools and methods for performing root canals and may use more sophisticated forms of local anesthesia.”
Standard Issues Endodontists Treat
The most common issue that an endodontist treats is an infected tooth pulp, which is treated with a procedure called a root canal. The American Academy of Endodontists reports the average endodontist performs 25 root canals each week. During a root canal, an endodontist will use specialized tools—such as 3D imaging and microscopes — to identify and clear the infected soft pulp from the inside of a tooth.
They will then seal off the tooth to prevent further damage. Endodontists also perform endodontic retreatments or revisions to initial root canal treatments if the patient has persistent pain or if a tooth has decayed further after a root canal.
“Endodontists also perform endodontic retreatments or revisions to initial root canal treatments if the patient has persistent pain or if a tooth has decayed further after a root canal.”
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Severe Endodontic Treatments
Endodontists can also help with more severe issues, such as surgery and dental implant placement. These procedures are often necessary after an initial root canal treatment. Root canal treatments are also not always suitable for every patient. Endodontic surgery and dental implant placement can preserve a tooth for a lifetime.
Occasionally, patients may have small fractures or hidden canals that go undetected by X-rays during an initial root canal treatment. Endodontic surgery can locate these fractures or canals, remove any calcium deposits, and treat any damaged surfaces. If all these measures are inadequate, tooth extraction may be necessary. In such cases, dental implants are the premier tooth replacement option, as they look and function like natural teeth.
“Endodontic surgery and dental implant placement can preserve a tooth for a lifetime.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Can endodontists help with more severe issues?
Q. When should I see the endodontist?
Q. What expertise and qualifications are required an endodontist?
Q. What are the services offered endodontists vs. general dentist?
Q. What are some standard issues endodontists treat?
People Also Ask
Q. Is increased sensitivity to temperature a sign that endodontic surgery is necessary?
Q. What are the benefits of a root canal?
Q. What if a crown or root canal cannot save my cracked tooth?
Q. Do I need a tooth extraction?
When to See an Endodontist
Many patients make the mistake of fearing the endodontist. In reality, it is critical to address tooth pain as soon as possible. Early intervention maximizes the chances of saving one's tooth. In many cases, an endodontist can resolve a patient's tooth pain in one appointment.
Individuals should seek out medical attention if they are experiencing tooth pain or have any temperature sensitivity. More severe cases may include incidents that have led to facial trauma or swelling around the face, gums, or teeth. Patients may worsen their situation by delaying treatment.
“Early intervention maximizes the chances of saving one’s tooth.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How common are root canals?
A. Root canals are slowly becoming a more common procedure, as the AAE reports that an average endodontist performs 25 root canals each week. Root canals are a crucial treatment to help prevent the further spread of infection or damage to the surrounding teeth.
Q. Does an endodontist perform more root canals than a dentist?
A. In general, yes. Because endodontists focus primarily on root canals, they tend to conduct a higher volume of these procedures. As the AAE estimates, the average endodontist performs 25 root canals each week, whereas the average dentist performs only two. Thus, seeking a professional endodontist can provide the specialized services the patient needs.
Q. What is the satisfaction rate of endodontists?
A. Endodontists are well-respected by their professional colleagues and patients alike. The AAE reports that 89% of patients remain satisfied after having a root canal performed by an endodontist; 94% of dentists have a positive impression of the care provided by the endodontists with whom they collaborate.
Q. How can I learn more about endodontics?
A. The field of endodontics is represented by the American Academy of Endodontists. Their motto is that endodontists are specialists in saving teeth. To learn more, you can visit the AAE website, which has several educational videos.
Q. Are root canal treatments painful?
A. Several endodontic procedures are designed to relieve the pain of toothaches derived from pulp inflammation or infection. Today's endodontists know more about pain management than ever. Now, most patients report little discomfort during the procedure.
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Endodontic Terminology
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Choosing the right dentist can be intimidating. Our team at Happy Dental and Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 770-200-4034 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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