How to Choose Between an Endodontist and a Dentist

Like most patients, you most likely visit an endodontist less often than a regular dentist. While you should have semiannual appointments with your family dentist, endodontic dentistry is for corrective procedures and severe dental conditions. With some oral disorders and issues, either of these professionals can provide relief. It is good to know which one is the right choice in certain situations.

What an endodontist does

An endodontist completes four years of undergraduate studies, following by four years of dental school. The person then has two or three years of additional training. This work focuses on diagnosing and treating tooth pain. This dentist has more knowledge of the interior of the tooth, including the tooth’s pulp. These dentists are often the first choice of someone who has a diseased tooth or needs a root canal.

What the general dentist does

A general dentist is a person’s source for overall oral health. The dentist will perform checkups, clean teeth, diagnose tooth decay and gum disease, and will fill cavities. Dentists can treat patients of all ages and may have the knowledge to do root canals and other more complex procedures. While all endodontists are dentists, few dentists can do endodontic work.

Pulp and root damage

A general dentist may diagnose problems with a person’s tooth roots or pulp. However, the dentist is more likely to refer a patient to an endodontist for this work. The endodontist has spent more time doing root canals and other procedures related to these parts of the tooth. For more complicated damage and widespread issues in this area, patients should consider endodontic help instead of going to the family dentist.

Cavities

A general dentist is well-equipped to identify tooth decay and repair the damage with a filling. The dentist can handle minor and moderate cavities and relieve the associated pain and discomfort. However, for more extensive decay, the dentist may call upon an endodontist to assist.

Comfort level

Often, it all comes down to a patient’s feelings about what makes the most sense for them. If a patient continually has a problem with the same tooth, more focused care may be necessary. Because an endodontist has more exposure to the inside portions of teeth, a patient may feel more comfortable going to this professional for urgent needs.

Working together

Patients who are not sure where to go for help should consult the general dentist. The dentist will be open about whether they can properly treat certain issues. This professional will have no problems in referring patients to an endodontist that they feel good about.

The right dentist for the right occasion

Both the general dentist and the endodontist want you to achieve your oral health goals. Consider what each dental professional does well so you can make the right choice. Find an endodontist near you when you need a root canal or other root or pulp therapy. You can make an appointment today to get treatment. Or, you can consult your dentist for a recommendation.

Request an appointment here: https://santarosaendodontics.com or call Santa Rosa Endodontics at (707) 409-1177 for an appointment in our Ukiah office.

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