What is an Endodontist?

If you are reading this page, it probably means that your General Dentist has referred you to see an Endodontist for consultation and/or treatment on one or more of your teeth. You may be thinking,



What is an Endodontist and why am I being referred?

An Endodontist is a dental specialist who deals with infections that occur inside the tooth. You might be experiencing pain to hot or cold temperatures, biting, swelling, gum sensitivity, abscess, discoloration of the tooth, or you may have no symptoms at all. You might be experiencing these symptoms because of deep decay, trauma, chipping, cracking, or repeated dental procedures. In some cases, the inside of a tooth (called the pulp) dies, or becomes necrotic, for no apparent reason.

There are several ways in which Endodontists save teeth that have infections or necrosis, but the most common procedure is called a root canal treatment. More than 14 million teeth receive some form of root canal treatment each year—you’re not alone. Moreover, you’re in good hands. All Endodontists complete two years of post doctorate education to become a specialist. That’s approximately 10 years of college.