Endodontist Information

When a general dentist encounters a case of damage to the nerves or blood vessels that are in the pulp inside the tooth, he might refer a patient to a specialist called an endodontist. Endodontists, who have had additional training beyond general dentistry, perform specialized treatments such as root canals that can save teeth that have become diseased, injured or rotted.

Root Canals

• According to the American Association of Endodontists, the most common procedure that endodontists perform is a root canal. Root canals are needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. The tooth then needs to be drilled and the bacteria causing the infection and the affected tissue must be removed. The endodontist might have to drill multiple canals in a single tooth in order to remove all the infected tissue.

Function

• Although Safe Dentistry says that regular dentists usually are qualified to perform advanced dental surgeries such as root canals, many patients prefer to see an endodontist. In addition, some situations can require more expertise, such as complex procedures on certain teeth like the back molars, or if a second root canal is needed to remove any additional tissue after the dentist has completed the initial root canal. An endodontist usually does these procedures.

Education

• An endodontist must complete dental school, which takes at least four years, and then complete an additional two years of training in a program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. He then has to pass three examinations. The first is a written exam in several fields, including biochemistry, anatomy, pharmacology, microbiology, statistics and others. The second is a case history examination that must document several diverse endodontic cases. The third is an oral exam in which experts question and interview the candidate in order to determine his level of problem solving, creativity and decision making. After satisfying all requirements, the candidate is considered a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics.

Technology

• Along with X-rays, endodontists will often use advanced technology such as fiber optic cables fitted with tiny cameras to get very close and precise views of teeth. They will also use apex locators to determine the length and depth of root canals.

Types

• According to Endodontic, endodontists also perform other surgeries, including intentional replantation, in which a tooth is removed and treated while outside of the mouth, then replaced. Endodontists often use local anesthesia during procedures. Following a procedure, a patient might experience slight pain, discomfort and swelling; the endodontist can prescribe medication to relieve any pain.