When you’re having trouble with your teeth or gums, visiting a general dentist may seem like the best solution. However, in certain scenarios, it may be better to visit a dental specialist known as an endodontist. Both of these professionals are focused on preventing and correcting oral health issues, but each has different skills and resources that are useful for specific situations. If you’re wondering whether you should see an endodontist or a conventional dentist, consider this comparison of the two professions.

A Guide to Dentists & Endodontists

Which Area of the Mouth Do They Treat?

General dentists provide services for all aspects of routine oral health. For example, they focus on preventing and treating common dental health issues affecting the teeth or gums. They may also provide care to enhance the appearance of your smile.

By contrast, endodontists focus on matters happening inside individual teeth. Rather than addressing issues that affect the enamel exterior, they specifically treat problems affecting the tooth’s nerves, roots, and dental pulp.

What Training Do They Have?

Both dentists and endodontists are required to complete an accredited dental school program—a process that usually involves four years of general oral health education and training. Endodontists, however, must also complete a specialized two-year training program where they study the care of teeth interiors.   

What Services Do They Provide?

Although dentists and endodontists may provide many similar services, there are times when it’s better to see one professional over the other. Dentists will provide all the services you need to maintain your oral health, such as routine dental exams and cleanings. They can also tend to minor dental problems—such as cavities and gingivitis—to prevent further damage. If the dentist offers cosmetic services, they might also provide tooth restorations, veneers, and whitening.

Most people will see an endodontist when they need emergency surgery for infections and dental trauma affecting the root canal. During root canal therapy, these professionals use their specialized training to carefully access the inside of the tooth, remove infected material, and restore the surface. If the infection spreads to the root, they can also provide an apicoectomy to surgically remove the tip of the root.

Since endodontists only treat these issues, they are relied upon to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible, while simultaneously preventing the further spread of infection. Their knowledge of dental nerve function is also used to minimize pain during root canal procedures.

If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or damage, turn to Grassi & Grassi, PC for comprehensive endodontic treatment in Rochester, NY. Serving patients for four decades, Dr. Michael Grassi and Dr. Tanjit Tagge are recognized for their precise management of common endodontic conditions, such as root canal infections and dental trauma. To learn more about their resources and commitment to comfortable, stress-free care, visit these oral health specialists online or call (585) 424-1111.