The study of the inner workings of the tooth is called Endodontics. Root canal treatment is the best known endodontic procedure. The endodontist will be a dentist who has studied and qualified over and above the regular training required for dentists in order to practice this specialisation.

What does the Endodontist do that my dentist cannot?

Root canal treatments are usually within the capabilities and skills of your general dentists, but there may be some occasions where your dentist may feel the need to refer you to an endodontist. For example, if you have undergone a root canal that was less than satisfactory in terms of its outcome, then the added expertise of an endodontist may be required. Where the teeth may be in a more inaccessible location or have a more complex structure, then your dentist may feel that it will be in your best interest for an endodontist to undertake the treatment. Whatever the reason for your referral to an endodontist, you can be sure that you will be in the hands of a specialist in the field.

The Endodontist's Technology

Premium standards of patient care are achievable these days as a result of increased accuracy of endodontic instruments as well as the advanced skill levels of dental practitioners. Much finer detailed images of the mouth area than have ever been possible before are available thanks to the development of fibre optic illumination coupled with miniature video cameras and microscopes. The length of the root canal can now be measured down to 0.5mm using highly sophisticated apex locators. Also included in the endodontist's armoury are ultrasonic devices which can precisely locate and measure root canals.

And of course X-rays are still an invaluable tool for diagnosing inner tooth damage. However, the levels of radiation have been significantly reduced by using modern digital radiography equipment.

Root Canal Treatment

The very words 'root canal' historically conjure up images of a painful and prolonged procedure. However, with advances in the endodontist's skills and technology, root canal treatment is no longer a procedure to be feared. Root canal treatment is necessary when infection occurs in the pulp tissue of the inner tooth. Causes of this are varied and include periodontal disease (gum disease) and decay of the tooth surface which leaves the inner tooth prone to bacterial attack.

Root canal treatment begins with drilling the tooth and removing bacteria and infected tissue. The next step is to fill and seal the newly cleaned and prepared root canal. It could be the case that there are several root canals in one tooth, which of course can make the procedure longer and a little more complex. Extraction of the infected tooth is an alternative to root canal treatment by the endodontist.

Post Endodontic

Following endodontic treatment, there may be further work needed to restore the tooth around the root canal back to a fully operational and robust condition. This will very likely be undertaken by your regular dentist. With the restoration work having been completed, it is unlikely that any follow up procedures will need to be performed by the endodontist.

If you have been referred to an endodontist by your dentist, it is nothing to be concerned about. Your dentist is merely ensuring that you get the best and most appropriate treatment possible, and that your dental health is in the best possible shape that it can be.

The information above is for your general information only, and does not replace the need to seek personal advice from a qualified dental health professional.