Does a root canal require a specialist?

Does a root canal require a specialist?

General dentists are skilled in performing root canal therapy and have the tools and training required for successfully completing most procedures. But there are some situations when even dentists who routinely perform root canals will refer their patients to an endodontist.

Why would a dentist send you to a specialist?

At times a physician referral may be needed if, during your dental appointment, a medical concern is noticed. Common examples of this may be high blood pressure or tonsil issues. General Dentists work closely with specialists to properly diagnose and treat the patient for their needs.

What specialist performs the root canal therapy?

Endodontists are specialist dentists who focus on disorders of the dental pulp and specialize in treatments such as root canals. Endodontists go through significantly more specialized training and have years more experience. An endodontist also is recommended for teeth with more than one canal, such as molars.

Why does my dentist say I need a root canal?

Why Do I Need Tooth Canal Therapy? A tooth canal treatment is necessary when the pulp inside the root canal of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. That could be the result of deep tooth decay, a crack or chip, or an injury to your tooth. If left untreated, pulp inflammation can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

Can a regular dentist do a root canal on a molar?

General dentists can perform root canal procedures along with other dental procedures, but often they refer patients needing endodontic treatment to a specialized practice, who works in collaboration with your dentist. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in saving teeth.

Can my dentist refer me to a specialist?

Although, generally it would be a general dentist that would ‘refer’ a patient to a specialist, it is not uncommon that patients will sometimes locate a specialist themselves and approach him or her directly. This is particularly common in the field of orthodontics for example.

When does the dentist refer you to a specialist?

Your general dentist likely provides a broad range of preventive and restorative services, including routine cleanings and exams. However, if you have an oral health problem that requires specialized care, your dentist may refer you to a specialist with expertise in a specific field of dentistry.

Do I need root canal if no infection?

Just because there’s no pain doesn’t mean your tooth is okay. Your dentist and endodontist determine if you need a root canal by looking at your tooth’s pulp. If it’s damaged or infected, you’ll need a root canal treatment, even if your tooth doesn’t hurt.

Is a root canal painful?

No, root canals are usually painless because dentists now use local anesthesia before the procedure to numb the tooth and its surrounding areas. So, you should feel no pain at all during the procedure. However, mild pain and discomfort are normal for a few days after a root canal is conducted.

How long does a molar root canal take?

Molars, the four-cusped teeth at the back of your mouth, can have up to four canals, making them the most time consuming teeth for a root canal. Since the roots alone take an hour to remove, disinfect, and fill, a molar root canal may take 90 minutes or more.

Can a regular dentist perform a root canal?

Either your regular dentist can perform your tooth’s work, or else a specialist. The formal term for a root canal specialist is “endodontist.” The main difference between the two lies in the level of expertise they have to offer.

How do I know if my tooth needs a root canal?

How to know if your tooth needs root canal: symptoms and treatment. Tooth pain is often a sign of serious issues with your teeth; however, a toothache does not always mean you need a root canal. Continue reading to understand how to know for sure if your symptoms mean a root canal is necessary for you.

Why is a root canal procedure performed through a hole?

The tooth undergoing treatment protrudes through a hole punched in the dam, isolating it from the rest of the mouth. This allows the root canal treatment to be carried out in a sterile environment free from contamination by bacteria found in saliva or the rest of the mouth.

How is local anesthesia administered for root canal treatment?

Local anesthesia is administered via injections to numb the tooth to be treated and the surrounding tissues. If the pulp in a tooth is acutely inflamed, and therefore very painful, it may take a while to get it numb, but your dentist will not start the treatment until it is.