Often general dentists refer patients needing root canal treatment to endodontists. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in treating the soft inner tissue of your tooth's roots. After they complete dental school, they attend another dental school program for two or three more years. This program is called an advanced specialty education program. They study only endodontic treatment and learn advanced techniques so they can give you the very best care.
Endodontists are specialists.
In their offices, they perform only endodontic procedures, both routine and complex. They are also experienced at finding the cause of oral and facial pain that is difficult to diagnose. Sometimes the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can be caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a crack or chip in the tooth, or a blow to the tooth. Signs to look for include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums.