Most people who experience tooth pain start with a visit to their general dentist, which is a good idea. A general dentist is well-suited to treat the most common causes of toothaches such as cavities and gum disease. However, extreme sensitivity to hot and cold, lingering pain, a dull ache in the jaw, or discomfort while chewing can all be indicative of an endodontic problem. An endodontist has a specialized focus and training which means that these specialists are highly skilled at diagnosing dental pain and treating associated disorders.

A root canal in a molar is more difficult to work on not only because of its location in the back of the mouth, but also because of multiple canals and longer roots, which often have accessory canals. Endodontists are specially trained to handle this type of situation and typically have the most experience performing root canals.

In dental school, general dentists receive endodontic training. Some dentists perform endodontic procedures in their own practice, while others refer all endodontic work to a specialist. If a condition presents particular challenges (such as confusing dental pain or a tooth with complex anatomy), a general dentist will refer you to an endodontist if they feel seeing a specialist would benefit you.

When you visit an endodontist, they will review your dental history and perform a thorough exam. Typically, diagnostic imaging and testing will be used to help determine the exact problem. So you can understand how treatment can relieve your pain and save your tooth, after making a diagnosis, your endodontist will discuss the benefits, options, and risks involved. If you agree to move forward with endodontic treatment, it may start right away and could even finish in one appointment.

A number of factors are involved, including the number of canals that require treatment, where you live, the type of procedure that is being done, the difficulty of accessing the tooth, whether the work is being done by a general dentist or an endodontist and whether you have dental insurance.

The number of canals in each tooth will have a big impact on cost as the more canals that are present will increase the cost of the treatment.

As no two root canal systems are the same, you will see a range in prices for any number of root canals. Some root canals are more challenging to treat than others and thus will cost more. For example, unexpected anatomic variations may be present, access into the root canal system may be difficult (the dentist or endodontist may have to drill through a dental crown), the root canal system may have been previously treated by a dentist or endodontist and requires retreatment or the canals may be calcified. The more difficult a procedure is, the more you can expect it to cost.

While one is not inherently better than the other, they both have different areas of specialty. Dentists can treat a wide array of different dental ailments and are usually the first line of contact for all dental situations. Endodontists, on the other hand, specialize in the inside of the tooth and all related procedures, such as root canals. If you are not sure whether you require the services of a dentist or endodontist, speaking with a dentist will provide you with the proper information, as they will refer you if necessary.

If you or someone you know is looking for a top-quality endodontist, come to Ideal Endodontics! Our team of kind and caring professionals can help your teeth be at their optimal health. To speak with one of our specialists, contact our office today. Visit us online or simply contact us to book an appointment.