What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a fancy name in dentistry for root canals. A root canal involves the middle of each tooth, where the nerve and the blood supply are located. Whether due to a really big cavity or a crack inside the tooth, bacteria can get in and cause an infection. A root canal involves cleaning out as much of the bacteria as possible to get the tooth healthy again so that you can continue to chew on it and use it long term.
Why did my dentist refer me to an endodontist specialist?
Some patients may ask why they need to be referred to a specialist to get a root canal done? The reason for that is that some root canals are more challenging than others. Certain teeth, such as molars, usually have three or four canals and can be more challenging to complete. Another reason for a specialist referral is if a root canal has already been done and needs to be redone due to a new infection. Cracked teeth are also often referred to specialists because they have specific instruments, such as large microscopes, that allow them to better see and treat the crack.
What is the difference between an endodontist and a general dentist?
An endodontist is specialized in root canals, and deals with them day in, day out. They've usually undergone additional training compared to a general dentist, typically an extra three years of university training. General dentists, on the other hand, deal with a larger subset of treatments, including root canals, crowns, bridges, dentures, etc., but do not specialize in one area.
What procedures are done in endodontics?
Usually, at an endodontist's office, they perform very similar procedures to what we do here but usually more difficult ones. This includes doing a root canal for the first time, redoing a failed root canal (called a retreat), and performing surgical root canals. They also treat more complicated cases, such as when a child's tooth has broken and the root hasn't completely formed, which we wouldn't typically handle at a general office.
Can an endodontist pull a tooth?
Patients often ask me, can an endodontist pull a tooth? Usually, no, they are not going to be pulling your teeth out because they specialize in doing root canals. Anything outside of root canals would be referred back to your general dentist, who can remove the tooth if needed.
How does an endodontist determine if you need a root canal?
They conduct very similar tests to what we do here at a general dentist office. A common one is the cold test, which involves applying a cold temperature to the tooth. If you can feel the cold and it goes away, that's usually a good sign. If it causes intense, lingering pain, it indicates the nerve is starting to die and is infected. Other tests include tapping on the teeth to check for pain, which can indicate an infection. Endodontists may also use a CBCT x-ray, which is a 3D x-ray, to get detailed information about the tooth.
Does insurance cover endodontic procedures?
The answer is usually yes. Endodontic treatment generally falls under basic treatment, like cleanings and fillings. However, I recommend all patients check with their insurance carrier to see if root canals and specialist fees are covered, as sometimes they only cover general dentist fees.
Conclusion
I hope I was able to answer a few of your questions about endodontics. If you have any further questions, please give us a call or if you feel like you might need a root canal, give us a call at (204) 817-6768. Thank you.