What is an Endodontist?

Obturation of root canals during endodontic treatment

Endodontists are dental specialists who have completed two additional years of advanced endodontic training and education beyond dental school. Endodontic training emphasizes root canal treatments and the diagnosis of diseases and conditions that warrant them. An endodontist does not practice general dentistry but instead devotes the majority of his or her time to performing root canals – specifically those pertaining to narrowed canals or anatomically atypical cases. Most endodontists have offices equipped with highly advanced technology, including 3D imaging devices and high powered microscopes.

Did you know…

that endodontists perform an estimated 5.7 million procedures every year? Of those, the American Association of Endodontists reports that more than 4.2 million are root canal treatments. Despite the majority of those being widely successful, there are still several myths surrounding root canal treatment. For example, root canal treatments do not cause pain as rumored; they relieve it. Similarly, extracting a diseased tooth is not a better alternative to root canal treatment, as keeping as much of your natural tooth as possible should be the treatment goal of you and your dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I visit an endodontist?

You may need to visit an endodontist if you have decay that has reached the pulp of your tooth. Once bacteria reach the pulp, it can be extremely painful and will cause the tooth to begin to die. By seeking endodontic help, you can get relief for your pain and still preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible.

What should I expect during an endodontic treatment?

Your visit to the endodontist should not be intimidating. Instead, you can expect a comfortable office and knowledgeable staff members who assist patients everyday in relieving pain and treating diseased teeth. You can expect to be anesthetized for the duration of your treatment to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. The majority of endodontic treatments are highly successful. Though results vary from person to person, there is a good chance your root canal and restoration will last you a lifetime.

Will I need to follow any special instructions after the procedure?

Following your root canal, you will need to follow a set of post-operative instructions designed to make your recovery easier and successful. You will not be allowed to eat or drink anything for at least a half hour, and you may begin experiencing some slight discomfort near the site of the procedure in the first couple of days. Be sure to avoid biting or chewing hard and sticky foods, and schedule an appointment to return to your dentist for a permanent crown or filling within 30 days of your procedure.

Share this post!
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
Email
WhatsApp
Further Reading

Patient Education and Resources

Learn about conditions and treatments we offer at Bonita Endodontics.

Obturation of root canals during endodontic treatment

What is an Endodontist?

Endodontists are dental specialists who have completed two additional years of advanced endodontic training and education beyond dental school. Endodontic training emphasizes root canal treatments

Read More »
young man feeling pain, holding his cheek with hand

Endodontic Emergency Treatment

Dental emergencies happen all the time, but some require treatment from an endodontic specialist. Endodontists frequently treat patients who are experiencing sudden and severe pain

Read More »
your comfort is our priority

Comprehensive Endodontics

At Bonita Endodontics, we are qualified to handle all aspects of your endodontic care, so you are always surrounded by people that you trust. If we must refer out, we promise to send you to carefully vetted colleagues who apply the same professional principles in their office that we do in ours.