Should I Go to a Dentist or an Endodontist for a Root Canal?
There are many options if you are looking for a root canal dentist or endodontist in the Highland Park area. But which one do you choose? Should you go to a general dentist or an endodontist?
If you want the most skilled dental care available in root canals, an endodontist will provide that level of expertise. However, choosing between an endodontist and a general dentist depends on your needs and goals. For example, a general dentist may be best for you if you want to save money.
However, sometimes, it’s not that simple. In some cases, your general dentist may refer you to an endodontist for a root canal. This may be because the general dentist suspects that the problem is more complicated than they can handle. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the differences between dentists and endodontists to make the best decision for your needs.
Dentist vs. Endodontist: What’s the Difference?
Dentists and endodontists are both graduates of dental school. This means that both are equally qualified to clean teeth and prevent tooth decay. However, that’s where the similarities end. Dentists focus on general dental care, such as cleaning your mouth, providing fillings for cavities, and treating gum disease.
On the other hand, endodontists have additional training in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries to the tooth pulp and tissues surrounding the root of the tooth. Therefore, they are more specialized than dentists when it comes to root canals.
Furthermore, endodontists often have more experience with complex cases that may require special procedures or treatments to save badly injured teeth. Therefore, dentists may refer a patient to an endodontist when they cannot perform the procedure needed because of their inexperience or lack of training, such as performing root canals with micro-endo equipment.
Which Doctor is Best for Root Canal?
So, you’re interested in root canal Highland Park services but unsure if you should visit an endodontist vs dentist? Here are some things to consider when making your decision:
Endodontists Typically Have More Experience
Endodontists often have two to three years of additional training after dental school, which means they have more experience with complex tooth injuries and dental procedures.
Endodontists Have Specialized Expertise
Unlike dentists, endodontists limit their practice to treating the dental pulp and root canal systems. As a result, they perform up to 25 root canals in a week, while dentists can do about two in a week. This specialization allows them to provide you with the highest level of care possible.
Endodontists Use State-of-the-Art Technologies
As we’ve mentioned, endodontists are experts in what they do. They use the latest technologies and cutting-edge equipment, including:
- Rubber dams to isolate the tooth and prevent contamination of your mouth
- Microscopes magnify their work, allowing them to make more detailed diagnoses and treatments.
- Digital radiographs and 3-D imaging to better visualize and assess their work.
Endodontists use these technologies because their priority is your safety and comfort. In addition, they want to make sure that you are getting the most effective treatment possible with no complications. That’s why you must see endodontists at Highland Park if you need root canal treatments.
Endodontists Are Experts in Pain Management
Endodontists are also experts in pain management. They understand the discomfort and sensitivity that many people feel after having a root canal procedure completed, so they do everything possible to keep you comfortable during your treatment. Not to mention, they offer post-surgery methods to help reduce the amount of pain you experience.
Dentists Offer Budget-Friendly Services
Dentists are also trained to perform root canals, and the good news is that they offer a more budget-friendly service than visiting an endodontist. Therefore, they may be a better option for you if money is a concern.
However, if your case is too complicated, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist. In this case, it is essential to remember that the endodontist is a specialist in root canals, and they will have the necessary tools and training to treat your tooth correctly.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between seeing your family dentist Highland Park and an endodontist is up to you. Both doctors can perform root canals, but the endodontist is more skilled at it and may be a better choice if your situation warrants it.
Therefore, be sure that you consider your budget, level of comfort, and the complexity of your case before deciding which one will be best for you. Most importantly, consult your dentist to help you make the final decision. If you are looking for stronger teeth and an attractive smile, Get in touch with us at Lasting Smiles of Highland Park in New Jersey, today to schedule your consultation or call (732)777-9077.