My dentist told me that I need to have a root canal. My husband went to a specialist when he had his root canal done. I know his root canal was more expensive than what my dentist charges. Kim Loos Dr. Kimberly A. Loos practices general dentistry in San Jose, California. She is also a clinical instructor at University of Pacific School of Dentistry and an editor for Dentistry On-Line.
Many general dentists are perfectly able to perform quality root canal procedures.
General dentists are trained how to perform basic root canal operations in dental school. Personally, I don't mind treating the anterior teeth and the bicuspids, but I do not like to perform root canals on molars, mainly because they can be a bit more complicated. Therefore, I will refer these cases to a specialist. Specialists are usually more expensive but they also have had more practice completing root canals. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment.