The Difference Between a Dentist and an Endodontist

While all endodontists are dentists, it is important to know that only 3% of dentists are endodontists. In other words, your dentist may perform root canal therapy on occasion, but an endodontist performs root canal therapy almost every day as it is one of their primary procedures.

Endodontists go to dental school with their fellow dentists but must also attend an additional two or more years in school for specialized training. Therefore, endodontists have a greater understanding of performing root canal therapy procedures and diagnosing tooth pain than dentists.

Choosing a Professional to Perform Your Root Canal Therapy

While some dentists are comfortable performing root canals in their offices, it is not uncommon to be referred to an endodontist. However, it is also essential to consider the type of root canal therapy you are looking for, since a dentist or endodontist may not be your only option.

Standard root canal treatment, also known as RCT, is the most common method of root canal therapy seen in most dental offices. During this type of root canal therapy, your dentist or endodontist will use files and treatment fluids to disinfect and clean your root canal system. Typically, RCT requires two appointments to complete.

Another method of root canal therapy is the GentleWave Procedure. This method uses broad spectrum acoustic energy and fluid dynamics to disinfect and clean your root canal system. Ultimately, the GentleWave Procedure requires fewer files and has been described to be more comfortable than standard root canal therapy. In addition, this method can be completed in just one session and is found to be so effective that there is less chance of failure over time.

If you would like to schedule an appointment for root canal therapy or want to learn more about your options, give North County Dental Care a call today at 760.940.4266!

North County Dental Care brings together a host of dental specialists to provide a full spectrum of dental care for you and your family, all in one convenient location. Our family dentistry office in Vista, California, does not require referrals or running from one specialist’s office to another to receive the care you need. Best of all, we treat patients of all ages so that you can schedule your entire family’s dental appointments all in one place.