When you have a toothache, you probably will visit your general dentist. However, what happens when you have a tooth infection, you should visit an endodontist near you. Dentists are the most common type of healthcare professional that you will find in a dental office. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating dental problems. Endodontists, on the other hand, are specialists in root canal therapy. It is vital to know their differences when choosing a dental specialist.
What is a Dentist?
A dentist specializes in examining, diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and disorders affecting the teeth and other structures of the mouth. They are your primary dental provider and your first point of contact when you have a dental problem.
Dentists treat dental issues like toothaches by performing restorative or extraction surgeries if necessary. They also perform preventative dental care by providing yearly cleanings and regular checkups for early detection signs of disease onset, such as gum disease.
What is an Endodontist?
An endodontist is a specialist in the treatment of root canals. They’re also experts at treating dental pulp, the tissue inside your tooth that houses blood vessels and nerves.
Endodontist focuses on treating problems with these tissues deeper within your mouth rather than just cleaning out debris around it.
What are the Differences Between Dentists and Endodontists?
Dentists and endodontists are different in education, techniques, and treatment.
a) Education:
Both dentists and endodontists have to complete a four-year undergraduate degree.
However, endodontists get post-graduate training before they qualify to practice. They are trained in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries of the teeth and their supporting structures.
b) Techniques Used:
The chief difference between a dentist and an endodontist, is that the former uses traditional methods such as drilling and filling. In contrast, the latter uses advanced tools to remove infected tissue around your teeth.
Endodontic specialists are dental professionals who specialize in the treatment of diseased or injured teeth. They use specialized equipment, like 3D scans, surgical microscopes, and ultrasonic instruments, to find the best way to complete endodontic procedures, such as root canal therapy. Without these tools, it can take a general dentist twice as long to complete a procedure as an endodontist.
c) Treatments Provided by Dentists:
1) Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings
A routine dental exam is a checkup that includes a visual inspection of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This can include taking x-rays of your mouth to look for cavities or other problems. Routine cleanings happen every six months unless there’s an issue with the health of your teeth.
2) Dental Sealants
Sealants are a dental treatment that protects your teeth and helps prevent decay. They can be applied on all teeth, but they’re most effective for those with cavities or decay. Our dentist in Irving, TX 75061 recommends dental sealants for children, but adults can also use them if they don’t have existing fillings.
3) Fluoride Applications
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens teeth. It can be applied to teeth in the form of toothpaste or mouthwash, but it can also be applied to your teeth with fluoride varnish (a type of resin).
4) Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are made of porcelain, composite, or gold. They restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or fracture.
5) Restorative Treatments
Restorative dental treatments are a set of procedures used to restore the form and function of teeth. Most restorative treatments are done to replace missing teeth, repair broken teeth, or improve the appearance of teeth. The most common treatments are bridges and implants.
d) Treatments Provided by Endodontists:
1) Root Canal
Endodontists specialize in treating problems with the pulp of teeth, including infection, inflammation, and decay. They also use a root canal to treat a tooth infected by bacteria or other pathogens. Root canal therapy is a surgical procedure that can restore the functionality of teeth to help them heal and protect your gums. A dentist will remove all infected pulp tissue, which is dead nerve tissue in the tooth’s root canal system (the innermost portion). The remaining diseased pulp tissue is then filled with a composite resin material and sealed with crowns or veneers for resistance against decay.
2) Endodontic Surgery
If a nonsurgical root canal is unsuccessful, our endodontist in Irving, TX may recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can detect small fractures or hidden canals or remove calcium deposits.
Schedule an Appointment
Are you looking for an endodontist or a dentist in Irving, TX 75061? Call us or book an appointment with us at Sterling Dental Center for more information about various dental & endodontic procedures we provide!