Do you think you may need a root canal? Has your dentist said that you’re in need of one? Despite what you’ve seen on TV and in movies, root canal therapy isn’t excruciatingly painful like you may think. With modern dental technology and anesthetics, it feels similar to getting a large dental filling. However, you may want to consider allowing an endodontist to handle your procedure than your regular dentist. Continue reading to learn why this is the case.
What Is an Endodontist?
Endodontists are essentially root canal specialists. They are dentists who focus on the study and treatment of dental pulp – the center of the tooth that is made up of connective tissue and nerves. They are frequently dealing with patients who are experiencing tooth pain, disease, and infection and have extra training that helps them to address tooth pain and perform root canals in order to save infected and decayed teeth.
Why Should You Choose an Endodontist?
Here are some of the reasons why you may want to choose an endodontist for your root canal therapy over your general dentist:
Experience
On average, an endodontist performs nearly 25 root canal treatments each week, while general dentists may perform one or two. When picking a dentist to perform your root canal, it is a good idea to choose someone who is well practiced when it comes to the procedure.
Efficiency
Since endodontists limit their work to root canals and other similar treatments, they tend to be more efficient and precise when it comes to your treatment. This means you’ll enjoy a quicker experience and faster healing process compared to a general dentist.
Availability
Because endodontists are focused on a specific discipline, they are able to offer more flexibility when it comes to accommodating emergency cases, like extreme tooth pain. Ultimately, delays in treatment are reduced so discomfort can be addressed and eliminated more quickly. You will be seen as soon as possible.
Technology
Endodontists are dealing with so many patients with tooth pain, so they have all the advanced state-of-the-art technology needed to treat patients as quickly and efficiently as possible.
General dentists are great, but you may want to consider choosing an endodontist if you’re needing a more complex procedure like a root canal. This way, you can ensure a quick, painless treatment while knowing that your smile is in good hands.
About the Author
Dr. Gregory C. Gell is an experienced endodontist who has been working in the field for over two decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry before obtaining a Certificate of Endodontics and Masters of Science degree in oral biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. Dr. Gell is a proud diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Concord, visit his website or call (704) 784-4625.