When To See An Endodontist Vs. Dental Surgeon?

The confusion about which specialist to visit when it comes to dental health is rather understandable. There are two major dental specialists, namely the endodontist and the dental surgeon. All of them have their responsibilities in the scheme of assessing, preventing, and treating oral conditions. At Crosby Family Dental, we help people decide when they should go to an endodontist or dental surgeon. Below is a comprehensive guide for making wise choices about your dental health.

Understanding Endodontists

What Is an Endodontist?

An endodontist is a specialized dentist who particularly focuses on identifying and equally treating conditions of the dental pulp and the tissues in the area bordering tooth roots. Endodontists are those who undergo some specialized training beyond dental school and are specialized in difficult root canal treatment as well as endodontic surgery.

Common Reasons to See an Endodontist

Severe Tooth Pain:

When it comes to dental issues, if one is suffering from a severe toothache, it may be due to an infection or inflammation in the pulp. An endodontist may be able to diagnose the problem and perform root canal therapy to help retain the tooth.

Root Canal Therapy:

Endodontists specialize in root canal treatments, surgery to remove the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping the canals, and filling and sealing them.

Retreatment of Previous Root Canals:

Sometimes, an endodontist might be called upon to conduct a retreatment of a root canal if the previous attempt was not successful or if there are complications.

Traumatic Dental Injuries:

Endodontists also treat traumatic injuries, such as chipped, cracked, or dislodged teeth, and they may perform surgery to save the teeth.

Understanding Dental Surgeons

A dental surgeon is involved in the organic establishment, retrieval, and modification of teeth in their natural environment, that is, in the oral cavity of a patient.

In other words, a dental surgeon is referred to as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon because he or she deals in surgery of the mouth, jaw, and face. They primarily take their time to teach and train in dentistry and medicine so that they can handle delicate operations.

Common Reasons to See a Dental Surgeon

Tooth Extractions:

General dentists perform simple surgical tooth removals, while dental surgeons are involved in surgical tooth removal, especially in cases where the teeth are impacted or difficult to remove.

Dental Implants:

When it comes to dental implants, a dental surgeon can carry out the required operations needed to place the implants and help them fuse with the jawbone.

Jaw Surgery:

Maxillofacial surgeons operate and carry out corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) where patients have problems with the jaw bones relating to chewing, speaking, and breathing.

Facial Trauma:

In cases of injury to the face and especially the mouth, bones being broken or badly damaged, these specialists are ready to do reconstructive surgery.

What to Choose: Which Specialist?

Endodontist vs. Dental Surgeon: How to Decide?

Assessing the Symptoms:

The kind of specialist to consult depends on the nature of the symptoms that you are experiencing. This means that toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and swelling may be possible signs that one may require the services of an endodontist. However, problems such as impacted wisdom teeth, dental implants, or an out-of-line jaw call for a dental surgeon’s intervention.

Referral from Your General Dentist:

Your general dentist at Crosby Family Dental can advise you on which specialist is best for your case. They will be able to determine your situation and then refer you to the right expert; it could be an endodontist or a dental surgeon.

Conclusion

Knowing when to see an endodontist versus a dental surgeon is essential for addressing specific dental issues effectively. Endodontists are your go-to specialists for root canals and pulp-related problems, while dental surgeons handle complex extractions, implants, and jaw surgeries. If you’re unsure about which specialist to visit, your general dentist at Crosby Family Dental can guide you toward the right professional. Prioritizing your oral health by choosing the right specialist ensures you receive the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.