Choosing Between an Endodontist and General Dentist

General dentists provide invaluable dental treatments that can help preserve the health and beauty of your smile. In some cases, however, patients are better off consulting an endodontist for specialized treatments. But what is an endodontist? And when should you see one instead of your general dentist? Here’s what you should know.

What Is Endodontics and When Do You Need It? 

When a tooth suffers serious infection or damage to its pulp, root canal therapy can help preserve tooth function. An endodontist is essentially a root canal doctor who specializes in endodontic procedures, which address problems with a tooth’s root and pulp. All dentists receive some level of training in endodontic diagnosis and therapy. With that said, in complex cases, dentists will typically refer patients to dental endodontic specialists, who can then decide the best way to alleviate discomfort and preserve tooth function. 

Your general dentist is more likely to refer you to a root canal specialist if you have pain in a tooth or a history of injury to a tooth, which could impact the pulp or roots. 

Common Treatments Provided by Endodontists

In addition to providing root canal therapy, endodontics dentist specialties include surgery to fix a tooth that didn’t completely heal after a root canal. They can also perform apicoectomies, which are surgeries that extract the tip of a tooth’s roots. While endodontists typically provide treatments that address infection and severe decay, they can also save teeth that have been cracked or damaged by injury.

Here is how an endodontist can help:

• Root canal therapy
• Apicoectomy (surgical removal of the tooth root tip)
• Retreatment of teeth that didn’t heal properly after a root canal
• Repairing and treating cracked teeth
• Treating dental trauma and post-injury complications
• Addressing severe tooth decay and deep infections
  
  

Endodontist vs. General Dentist: Key Differences 

Experience is one of the most significant differences between a general dentist and an endodontist. According to the American Association of Endodontists, the average general dentist performs only about two root canals per week, while the average endodontist performs around 25. This focused expertise typically leads to smoother procedures, faster recovery, and better patient outcomes.

Additionally, Endodontists receive two more years of advanced training beyond dental school, giving them greater expertise in managing complex dental issues and using specialized technology designed to enhance results, streamline procedures, and improve patient comfort.

How to Know When to See a Specialist

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity, your first step is to schedule an appointment with your general dentist. In many cases, your dentist can diagnose and treat the issue right away. However, there are situations where seeing an endodontist directly may be the better choice:

• You have severe, persistent tooth pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter remedies
• You’ve experienced significant dental trauma, such as a cracked or knocked-out tooth
• You’ve had a root canal in the past that didn’t fully resolve the problem
• You suspect an infection deep within the tooth that may require advanced treatment

If you’re unsure where to start, begin with Gentle Dental. Our dentists can evaluate your situation and guide you to the right next step, whether that means in-office treatment or a referral to a trusted endodontist.

Partnering for Your Long-Term Dental Health

Your general dentist plays a central role in protecting your teeth and gums, but sometimes specialized care is necessary to save a damaged tooth or treat a more complex issue. At Gentle Dental, we work closely with endodontists and other specialists to ensure every patient receives the highest level of care.

This collaborative approach means you don’t have to manage your dental health alone. From preventive cleanings and checkups to specialized procedures, we coordinate your care every step of the way, keeping your comfort, safety, and long-term oral health at the top of our priority list.

Protecting Your Teeth at Home Between Visits

While regular dental visits are essential, what you do at home has the most significant impact on your long-term oral health. Simple daily habits can go a long way in preventing cavities, gum disease, and the need for more complex treatments:

• Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to support gum health
• Limit sugary and acidic foods that can damage enamel
• Schedule regular dental checkups to catch issues early

By combining consistent at-home care with professional support from Gentle Dental, you’ll be taking the best steps to keep your smile healthy and strong.

From Preventive Checkups to Root Canals—Gentle Dental Got You Covered

Get you closer to your perfect smile. Book your next appointment at a Gentle Dental location near you.