What’s the difference between a dentist and an endodontist?

When it comes to our teeth and overall dental health, it can be difficult to know which specialists to see for which issues. Most people will have heard of a root canal, but many patients are unaware of the differences between a dentist and an endodontist, and who is best to see when it comes to root canal treatment

If you think you may require the care of an Endodontist in London but are unsure if they can help – keep reading.

What is the main difference between a dentist and an Endodontist?

A dentist is a general practitioner who can treat most oral health concerns, while an endodontist specialises in root canal treatment and other endodontic procedures. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, seeing a specialist like an endodontist may be the best option for you.

It’s not unusual for your dentist to refer you to a specialist Endodontist in London as they are often more skilled to help. Endodontists have undergone additional training to be able to provide the best possible care for their patients, so often seeing an endodontist like us can be beneficial as you’ll be getting care from a specialist who is knowledgeable, experienced and solely focused on endodontic procedures.

Why see an Endodontist?

There are a few reasons why you might go to, or be referred to an endodontist, but the most common is for root canal treatment in London.

A root canal is used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. The treatment for this is complex, which is the main reason why it’s a common procedure performed by Endodontists. Although a general dentist can carry it out, more often than not, the more complex cases will usually result in a referral being made to a specialist like us.

What’s involved in root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment in London involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and then cleaning and sealing the tooth. Root canal treatment can save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

There are a few tell-tale signs that you might need the help of a specialist endodontist in London, including:

  • significant toothache that doesn’t go away with painkillers
  • a cracked tooth or one that has a large cavity
  • tender or swollen gums
  • tender or swollen face
  • a swollen neck

If you are experiencing any of the above or are concerned that you might need the support of an endodontist in London, we can help.

What are the benefits of seeing an Endodontist?

Although most dentists can carry out root canal treatment, there is a range of benefits available to patients who opt to see a specialist in endodontics. A few major benefits include:

  • endodontists can offer more advanced pain management
  • endodontists have more in-depth knowledge of root canal treatment
  • the treatments and technology on offer is often more cutting-edge

For those patients really struggling with the pain or side effects of having an infected tooth, and where root canal treatment is required, it can often be of huge benefit to see a specialist who can help quickly and effectively.

Specialist endodontics in London

With over 20 years of experience in saving our patients’ natural teeth through innovative and cutting-edge root canal treatment in London, you can feel confident that you’re in safe hands with us. 

We provide a warm and welcoming environment to all of our patients, whether you have come to us yourself or have been referred by your general dentist. So, if you feel like you could benefit from our services, be sure to get in touch by ringing us at 020 7935 6393 or emailing info@julianwebber.com and someone will get back to you as soon as they can.

Endodontics London