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What does an Endodontist Do?

Leena Palande Mar 12, 2019
What is an endodontist? When to see an endodontist? Here we describes the difference between a dentist and an endodontist. Read on, to know more about what do endodontists do.
A dentist is a specially trained doctor who deals with teeth and gum problems. A dentist helps relieve toothache in case of tooth decay but the very thought of removing a tooth produces severe anxiety in the minds of the patients.
Still, we all need them at some point in our lives. If your top and bottom teeth do not work together, an orthodontist corrects the shapes and/or positions of your teeth with the help of braces. What is an endodontist? The following section provides information about the nature of work of an endodontist.

Becoming an Endodontist

Endodontics is the branch of dentistry which deals with the biological structure and functioning of the human dental pulp and periradicular tissues. It involves studying the biology of the normal dental pulp. 
An endodontist studies the causes (etiology) of various diseases and injuries of the pulp and the resulting periradicular conditions. He studies how to diagnose, prevent and treat these conditions. A dentist is supposed to complete a postgraduate program (2-3 years) in endodontics from a renowned and accredited institute or university. 
Besides, he/she is expected to attend the training program accredited by the American Dental Association. After completing this successfully, he is recognized as an endodontist. After getting a license from the state, he can start working as an endodontist.

What do Endodontists Do

Both dentist and endodontist take care of your teeth but an endodontist is more known for root canals. He provides more specialized services than a dentist. Patients who require a complex procedure are usually referred to an endodontist by a dentist.
The treatment performed by endodontist is focused at retaining the natural teeth. Expertise areas of an endodontist are:
  • The root canal procedure.
  • Repairing teeth with perforations.
  • Whitening (bleaching) of discolored enamel and dentin.
  • Managing accidental and painful tooth injuries.
  • Surgical root procedures.
  • Designing and executing re-plantation.
  • Tooth transplantation from other locations within the patient's mouth.

The job also involves revisions (reconsideration and modification) of existing root canal treatments. Endodontists also treat medically compromised patients, which is considered as a challenging job.
The goals of the treatment by an endodontist are same as that by a dentist. The difference is that endodontists handle more complex and difficult cases. During the training, they learn everything regarding oral pathology and they have enough knowledge and experience regarding micro periapical surgery to save teeth when they start practicing.
They repair previous doctor's root canals, perform micro-surgeries to remove cysts. They repair teeth that cannot be spared with routine root canal procedure. A dentist also does root canal treatment but generally, more challenging cases are forwarded to endodontists. They are supposed to be the specialists in this field.
They examine, diagnose and treat the nerves under the teeth, gums and the dental tissue. Performing an oral surgery is a part of their routine. They need to attend training courses, seminars, and workshops regularly, to keep themselves updated about the current trends, surgical procedures and anything new in the industry.
The demand for endodontists is increasing every year as the number of patients  is increasing rapidly. As they own their practice, they earn a handsome income. Some who work in large hospitals, earn good salaries. Read more on endodontist salary range. Because of excellent working conditions, job of an endodontist is considered as a highly rewarding job.
Like all other medical jobs, this job also requires a compassionate mind, dedication and strong commitment. One who follows the principle of 'service above self', succeeds in his profession.