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Endodontists : Root Canals

What is an Endodontist? 

An Endodontist is a specialist in the area of diagnosing tooth pain, root canal treatment and other procedures involving the interior of the tooth. While every endodontist must be a dentist first, less than 3 percent of dentists are endodontists. These specialists have completed two or more additional years of education and training and are proudly referred to as the SuperHeroes of Saving Teeth! In many cases, a diseased or damaged tooth can be preserved through endodontic treatment. At Stonegate Dental we are thrilled to announce that we now have an endodontist on our staff at our Guelph Dental office. We also have an endodontic microscope in our office, which is technology that is usually only found in a clinic that is exclusive to Endodontics.   

What is a Root Canal?  

Root Canal treatment is necessary when the root of a tooth develops an infection. First, the inside of the tooth is cleaned thoroughly to remove all bacteria, and then it is properly disinfected. Once the tooth is adequately cleaned and prepared, it is then filled and sealed.  

Why See an Endodontist for a Root Canal? 

While it is quite common for regular dentists to perform root canals, Endodontists have specialized techniques and state of the art technologies that make them the best option for root canal treatment to protect and save your natural teeth. With their 2-3 years of additional education in their specialty program, and then limiting their practice exclusively to endodontics, these specialists have exceptional experience, knowledge and expertise that a regular dentist simply cannot offer. While a dentist may complete on average 2 root canals per week, an endodontist will perform upwards of 25. These focused and exclusive skills and knowledge of diseases affecting the dental pulp, as well as expert experience, make endodontists the superior option for diagnosing and treating damaged or compromised teeth. 

Endodontists are also experts in pain management and use specialized techniques to ensure patients are comfortable during their procedures. They are very knowledgeable and experienced in administration of anesthetic and numbing medications, particularly when treating patients who have had problems with getting and staying numb in the past. Not only do endodontists ensure comfort during their procedure, patients will also be relieved of tooth pain following their treatment as the inflammation or pulp infection heals.  

 

How do I know if I need an Endodontist?  

If you are experiencing tooth pain, it is important to see your dentist right away. The sooner you act the sooner you will feel better and the more likely it is that your tooth can be saved. If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, or have swelling around the teeth, gums or around your face, you should see your dentist right away. This is also true if you have sustained trauma to the face or mouth as result of an accident. In these situations your dentist will likely refer you to an endodontist to ensure you receive the best treatment and outcome possible. 

While it is common for some people to feel nervous or worried about having work done on their teeth, there truly is no need to fear root canal treatment. When it comes to treating and relieving your discomfort, endodontists can usually treat your tooth, relieve your pain and get you back to work the same day. Whatever your symptoms or issue may be, delaying treatment for a tooth that is causing pain or discomfort could ultimately complicate your case and decrease the odds of preserving your tooth.  

Endodontists and Dentists often work together to ensure that each patient receives the highest standard of care. When it comes to root canals and other procedures involving the pulp or interior of the tooth, seeking treatment from a specialist is the best option to ensure that all your dental needs are met. If you would like to know more about our new Endodontist on Staff or the equipment and technology we have in our office, contact our Guelph Dental office today and our staff will be more than happy to fill you in!