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.
What Makes Endodontists Different?
Endodontists are dental specialists who focus exclusively on diagnosing and treating problems inside the tooth, particularly those involving the dental pulp and root canals. After earning a dental degree, endodontists complete two or more additional years of advanced training in endodontic procedures, including root canal therapy, retreatments, and surgical endodontics.
While a general dentist may perform a few root canals each month, an endodontist typically completes dozens per week. That level of specialization translates to greater precision, faster healing, and often better outcomes for patients.
Reasons Your Dentist May Refer You
There are several reasons your dentist might send you to an endodontist instead of performing the root canal themselves:
- Complex Root Anatomy: Some teeth, especially molars, have intricate or curved root canals that require more advanced tools and techniques to treat successfully.
- Re-treatment Needs: If a previous root canal didn’t fully resolve the issue or failed over time, an endodontist is specially trained to correct the problem.
- Persistent Pain or Infection: When symptoms don’t improve with initial care, or when an infection is especially deep or widespread, it’s safer to trust a specialist.
- Use of Advanced Technology: Endodontists often use surgical microscopes, digital imaging, and 3D cone-beam CT scans to diagnose and treat with enhanced accuracy.
Ultimately, the goal is to save your natural tooth and prevent future complications—and endodontists are experts at doing just that.
Benefits of Seeing an Endodontist
Seeing an endodontist for your root canal can offer several advantages:
- Higher success rates thanks to their expertise and tools
- Quicker procedures with less post-op discomfort
- Reduced risk of complications in complex cases
- Targeted pain relief with accurate diagnosis and treatment
While general dentists are highly skilled, an endodontist’s focused training and daily experience with root canal therapy make them the best choice for difficult or high-risk cases.
If your general dentist refers you to a specialist, don’t worry—it simply means they want what’s best for your oral health.
When it comes to saving your natural tooth, turning to an endodontist gives you the best chance at long-term success.
About the Practice
Endodontic Group of Jersey City is a trusted provider of specialized root canal care in Jersey City, NJ. Our practice is known for its patient-first philosophy, advanced technology, and compassionate approach. With extensive experience in both traditional and surgical endodontic procedures, the team is committed to helping patients preserve their natural smiles with expert precision. Learn more about their services and doctors here.
Give us a call at (201) 484-5404 or request an appointment online.