Do Dentists Do Root Canals?
Your Treatment Options
Quick Answer
Do dentists do root canals?
Yes. Many general dentists provide root canal treatment when the tissue inside a tooth becomes infected, inflamed, or damaged. More challenging cases may be referred to an endodontist, who has advanced training in conditions affecting the inside of teeth.
Key Takeaways
- General dentists may perform routine root canals.
- An endodontist may treat more complex cases.
- Root canal therapy may help preserve a natural tooth.
- An exam and X-rays help determine the appropriate care.
- Tooth pain or swelling should be evaluated.
If a dentist says you may need a root canal, you might wonder who will provide the care. Does a dentist do root canals, or does this procedure always require a specialist?
General dentists receive education in diagnosing and treating many dental conditions, including problems involving the pulp inside teeth. Whether a dentist provides the treatment may depend on the affected tooth, its root structure, and how difficult the case is.
Do Dentists Perform Root Canals?
Yes, many general dentists do. A general dentist may perform a root canal when the case can be appropriately managed in their office. However, do all dentists do root canals? No. Some dentists provide this treatment themselves, while others refer patients to an endodontist.
Inside each tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Deep decay, a crack, or an injury can allow bacteria to reach this tissue. An infected tooth may cause tooth pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold, or discomfort when chewing.
Should I See a Dentist or Endodontist?
The choice between a dentist or an endodontist depends on the condition of the tooth. General dentists can often manage straightforward cases. Endodontists have additional training in endodontic treatment, with a focus on the pulp and root canals.
Your dentist may recommend a specialist when the tooth has curved or difficult canals, has undergone root canal care before, or requires treatment beyond what the dentist provides.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
Before performing the procedure, the dentist examines the tooth and may take X-rays to assess its roots and surrounding structures. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area.
To perform a root canal, the dentist makes a small opening in the tooth to reach the pulp. A protective sheet called a dental dam is placed around the tooth to help keep it isolated and dry.
The dentist removes unhealthy tissue from the tooth, including infected or damaged pulp within the canals. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, filled, and sealed.
After the root canal procedure, a crown, filling, or another type of dental restoration may be recommended to protect the treated tooth.
Can Root Canal Therapy Help Me Keep My Tooth?
Root canal therapy is used to treat damaged or infected tissue while preserving the natural tooth when it can be restored. Keeping the tooth may support normal chewing and help maintain your oral health.
If there is not enough healthy tooth structure to restore, extraction may be considered. A dental implant may be discussed as one option for replacing a missing tooth, depending on your needs.
Final Thoughts
Root canal treatment can address problems inside a tooth while helping preserve teeth that can still be restored. A dental evaluation can determine the cause of your symptoms and whether care from a general dentist or an endodontist is appropriate.
Get a Painful Tooth Properly Evaluated
Ongoing pain, swelling, or sensitivity can make eating and daily activities uncomfortable. Emergency Dentist in Little Rock can examine the affected tooth, identify what may be causing your symptoms, and discuss treatment based on the findings. Contact the office for an evaluation if your symptoms continue or worsen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dentist tell if the pulp inside my tooth is infected?
Your dentist can examine the tooth, review your symptoms, and use X-rays or other tests when needed to assess the pulp and surrounding tissues.
Why would I need a root canal instead of a filling?
A filling treats damaged areas of the tooth but does not treat infected or badly damaged pulp. If the problem has reached the pulp, root canal treatment may be considered.
Can a root canal be done on a tooth with a crown?
Sometimes. A crowned tooth may still need root canal treatment if its pulp becomes inflamed, infected, or damaged. The dentist will evaluate the crown and tooth before deciding how to proceed.
Does every infected tooth need a root canal?
No. Treatment depends on the source of the infection, the condition of the tooth, and whether it can be restored. An examination is needed to determine the appropriate care.
Can I eat normally after root canal treatment?
Your dentist may recommend avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is complete. Follow the instructions provided for your specific tooth and treatment.
