Are you dealing with persistent tooth pain? Wondering who to turn to when your dental issues require more than routine care? Knowing when to see an endodontist instead of your regular dentist can significantly impact your dental health.
What is the Difference?
A general or family dentistry is an oral health expert who tends to your teeth, bones, and gums. They are trained to handle a wide range of issues as well as provide customized preventive care based on a patient’s requirements and preferences. In comparison, an endodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on problems within the tooth, namely its fleshy center (the pulp) and the chamber it resides in. Below is a brief summary of each role:
| Aspects | Dentist | Endodontist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | General dental care and preventive services | Specialized in Root canal therapy and Pulp issue |
| Training | Dental school (DDS or DMD) | Additional 2-3 years of specialized training in endodontics |
| When to Visit | Routine check-ups, mild pain, preventive care | Severe pain, ongoing issues, complex root canals |
| Frequency of Procedures | Performs a variety of dental procedures | Primarily performs root canals and related treatments |
What is a General Dentist?
Your dentist plays a crucial role in maintaining the oral health of your and your family. They conduct routine check-ups to keep your smile bright as well as identify issues early on. General dentists also provide a number of restorations including fillings and crowns, and standard procedures such as root canals and simple tooth extractions.
When to Visit a Dentist
Booking an appointment with a dentist near Mount Royal for regular exams every 6 months or so is highly recommended. If you experience any of the following, it may be time to give your local dental clinic a call
- Cavities
- Persistent sensitivity
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Broken or lost dental crowns, fillings, or bridges
- Stains
What is an Endodontist?
Endodontists are specialists with additional years of training. Their efforts focus on the inside of the tooth where the pulp and nerves are located. They are experts in providing root canal therapy and other related procedures designed to save teeth from extraction, including fixing a past root canal that was unsuccessful and addressing abscesses deep within the tooth.
When to Visit an Endodontist?
There are specific situations where seeing an endodontist is the best choice, including:
- A severe or continual toothache
- Recurring issues like infections
- Deep cracks or otherwise fractured teeth
- Complicated root canals
With all that said, if you’re dealing with a particular problem like sensitivity, whether mild or severe, oral trauma, or chipped teeth, and are unsure whether to seek out professional assistance, it’s always wise to visit a local dental practice. A dentist can evaluate your smile and let you know the best way to move forward. If you need more advanced care, they can refer you to a specialist.
When Dentists and Endodontists Work Together
Dentists and endodontists often collaborate to provide optimal oral health treatment. Here’s how the process works:
- Referral Systems: Your dentist will refer you to an endodontist if specialized care is needed.
- Initial Consultation: During your first visit, the endodontist will evaluate your condition and plan the treatment.
- Communication: Dentists and endodontists communicate to ensure your treatment is coordinated and effective.
Way to Maintain Your Oral Health
Preventing dental issues is always better than treating them. Following the advice given to you by your dentist, be it brushing techniques or diet recommendations, will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. Routine exams and cleanings help your team stay on top of problems and remedy them if needed. As for endodontists, they can advise you on how to avoid severe dental issues and protect the tooth’s interior.
We are Your Oral Health Ally
Choosing Hampton Village Dentistry means receiving prompt and appropriate care. Whether you require simple or advanced treatment, schedule an appointment with our dentist in Saskatoon. They’ll assess your case and discuss your goals in order to provide tailored care and lasting results. It’s never too late to take the first step towards preserving your smile – contact us via phone or email today!