When your dentist tells you that you need a root canal, you might expect to have the procedure done right there in the same office. But in many cases, your dentist will refer you to a specialist called an endodontist. While both general dentists and endodontists are trained to perform root canals, endodontists have advanced expertise that makes them the preferred choice for more complex or delicate cases.

Here’s why your dentist might recommend seeing an endodontist—and why that’s actually a good thing.