The Complete Guide to Choosing an Endodontist: Everything to Know

Did you know that more than fifteen million root canals are performed every year? We rely on endodontists to perform these important procedures. Despite this fact, not many people know what they do specifically.

So, what is an endodontist? And how do you choose the one you know you can trust? If you want to learn the answer to these questions, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about choosing an endodontist for your needs. Let’s get started!

What Is an Endodontist?

Endodontists are a specialized category of dentists that work primarily with tooth pain, infection, and disease. Specifically, these individuals work with the interior part of the tooth known as the tooth pulp.

These are a series of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. Injuries repeated procedures, and tooth decay can all cause problems in this area.

Endodontists are specifically trained to deal with the common root canal procedure. This is the procedure where the inner tooth pulp is removed after it’s damaged or infected.

If you want to learn more about this common procedure, then you can visit brentwooddentalspa.com. Indeed, most ordinary dentists are also trained to perform root canals.

However, an endodontist has a lot more training, education, and experience in treating them.

When Should You See an Endodontist?

There are a lot of reasons why your dentist might recommend that you see a more specialized endodontist. The most common reason is a bacterial infection or severe inflammation in the tooth pulp.

If your dentist is recommending them it either means the case is too serious for them, or they’re not qualified to perform it. However, you might also need to see an endodontist if you’ve experienced:

• Dislodged or missing teeth
• Fractured teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Extreme teeth sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks

From there, the endodontist will see whether you need a root canal or similar nerve-related procedure.

Questions to Ask When Choosing an Endodontist

Now that we know what an endodontist is and when you should see one, it’s time to learn how to find a great one. Sadly, not all endodontists are created equally.

That’s why in this section we’ll be going over some questions that you should ask the ones in your area. That way, you’re sure that the endodontist you choose is the right option for your needs.

Do You Have Proper Training and Certification?

Remember that endodontists require a lot of classroom education and hands-on experience in endodontistry.

Specifically, they should have four years of dental school and two years of specialized education in an endodontist program.

You should make sure to ask whether the endodontist has finished all of their studies with the American Dental Association-approved program. If they’re devoted to patient care, they might also have diplomate status from the American Board of Endodontics.

This isn’t necessary. But, it does show that the endodontist holds ethical practices and a sense of continuing education in high regard.

Do You Have the Latest Technology?

This is typically one of the main factors that separate endodontists from other dentists. In addition to more experience and education, they also have access to the latest technology.

Specifically, you want operating microscopes. These instruments provide both high magnification levels and a focused beam of light. Why are they important?

Because there are a lot of nerve-related conditions that are next to impossible to identify without them. So, you want to make sure that your specific endodontist is utilizing this technology.

Do You Offer the Service I Need?

All endodontists should offer a root canal procedure option since this is what they’re known for. But, it’s important to remember that many provide other services depending on your needs.

For example, some endodontists provide emergency services if you receive traumatic injuries to your teeth. So, if you believe that you require treatment that’s not a root canal, make sure to describe it to the professional over the phone or in person.

They’ll let you know whether or not they can treat it. And, if not, then they’ll put you in touch with someone that can.

Do You Accept My Insurance?

A root canal is not a procedure you want to put off because you can’t afford it. So, you should check and make sure that the endodontist accepts whatever health insurance plan you have.

If they don’t accept it, and no one else in the area does, then don’t panic. There are still typically third-party financing options that they can refer you to. Ask the professional how much the procedure will cost.

A good endodontist will be as clear as possible when describing the cost of the root canal. They’ll asl work with you to make sure that you can afford whatever treatment you need.

What Are Their Locations and Hours?

Sadly, some rural areas might not have a lot of options for endodontists. If you fall in this category, then you should try to find the closest one to your home.

Ideally, they’ll also have an accommodating schedule that works with your work or schooling. Be careful around endodontists that don’t respect their patient’s time.

This is a clear sign of a subpar practice. Reading online reviews is a good way to get a sense of the average patient’s experience. 

Appreciate Learning How to Find an Endodontist? Keep Reading

We hope this article helped you learn more about choosing an endodontist. No one likes to hear that they have a problem with their tooth pulp.

But, if you put off a trip to the endodontist, then the infection could become potentially life-threatening. So, schedule your appointment today.

Did you learn something from this article? Keep exploring to find a hundred more just like it.