What is the difference between dentist and endodontist?

Endodontists have specialized experience: they perform an average of 25 endodontic treatments per week, while general dentists typically perform two. Endodontists don't place fillings or clean teeth. Instead, they spend their time diagnosing and treating tooth pain. Both endodontists and general dentists provide dental care, but they do different things.

Understanding the Role of an Endodontist: Specialists in Treating Tooth Pain and Performing Root Canals

An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on performing root canals. While a dentist does several things, such as cleaning teeth, filling cavities and placing sealants, endodontists do one thing: treat tooth pain. According to Dr. Mark J. Broomhead of Compton and Broomhead Dental Center, "The main difference between an endodontist and a dentist is the additional education that an endodontist has in a specialty". Technically, dentists can perform all the jobs an endodontist can do, but their skills are more diversified.

In addition, many dentists refer their patients to an endodontist when they need a root canal. General dentists and endodontists are dental care professionals. Although they have some areas of practice that overlap, in general, they treat different dental problems. The additional training that endodontists receive focuses on performing endodontic treatments and other procedures related to the inside of the tooth and the dental pulp.

The Importance of Endodontists in Preserving Your Dental Health

They are trained and knowledgeable professionals dedicated to preserving your teeth. In many cases, a sick tooth can be saved with endodontic treatment. For this reason, endodontists proudly refer to themselves as “specialists in saving teeth.” The main difference between the two lies in the level of experience they offer. And as described on this page, while you can't go wrong choosing to have your tooth treated by an endodontist, your level of training and skill aren't necessary in all cases.

Ideally, your dentist and endodontist work together to address problematic dental problems and preserve your long-term dental health. It's best to find a dental office that performs all types of procedures and has all the specialists available, including an endodontist, dentist, and dental hygienist.