When we face a dental problem, we go to a general dentist. That’s because we know a dentist can fix all kinds of dental health issues, whether a cosmetic requirement or a toothache. It is also interesting to note that different dentists have different areas of specialization.
Before choosing one, you need to understand their roles, specialities, and experience. Most people are unaware of the difference between endodontists vs periodontists. Let’s find out with reliable Keller dentistry services.
Are Endodontists and Periodontists the Same as General Dentists?
Not necessarily. General dentists are known for deep cleaning, fillings, orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction, etc. On the other hand, endodontists and Periodontists are trained, certified, and experienced professionals with different areas of expertise. Patients are referred to these specialists when they are diagnosed with severe gum disease or infection in the pulp of the tooth.
Endodontist: Qualifications and Specializations
A general dentist can thoroughly clean a tooth to remove plaque, tartar, and discolouration. They might also perform root canal therapy. But, if the case is severe and the tooth is damaged to the point that it can’t be treated without an invasive procedure, it’s advisable to consult an endodontist.
Here’s what experienced Keller endodontists have.
An endodontist specializes in treating the pain associated with the root, pulp, and other parts of your teeth. Usually, when a general dentist is unable to treat the underlying cause of inflammation or pain, they refer you to an endodontist.
Becoming an endodontist is not a cakewalk. Like any dentist, students pursuing a career in this field are supposed to complete their bachelor’s course in biology, chemistry, or other relevant fields. They start preparation for dental school, where they study dentistry for four years.
After completing dental school, they sign up for an additional 2-3 year endodontics course for theoretical and practical knowledge. An endodontist can start practice as soon as they finish their undergraduate programs and achieve certifications. Getting a certification from the American Board of Endodontics can help the candidate become a recognized endodontist.
When Do You Need to See an Endodontist?
Endodontists work on the root and pulp of your tooth. Thanks to the complexity of the procedure, research shows that only 3% of dentists are categorized as endodontists. Needless to say, achieving this degree requires years of practice and extensive knowledge. The candidate may have to work under supervisors for several years to be considered eligible for practice.
General dentists treat most of your tooth issues. But as mentioned above, they will refer you to an endodontist in severe cases requiring surgical treatment to save your tooth. Simply put, an endodontist works on the inside of your tooth. They identify the root cause of the pain and treat severe inflammation without damaging the surrounding nerves and bones. They also specialize in cases where the patient has sustained a serious injury on the face.
Periodontist: Qualifications and Specialization
Periodontists are general dentists that specialize in gums. They execute all dentistry operations but with additional credentials and experience in treating periodontal diseases. They study from the same school as an endodontist and a general dentist, except they pursue further education for the next 3-5 years to specialise in periodontal cases. Periodontists help you with gum treatments. From placing dental implants to executing laser procedures, these professionals can help you with a wide array of dental issues.
Keeping your gum in good shape is important for oral health. They protect your teeth from getting exposed or loose. Healthy gums look soft and pink. They fit snugly around your teeth.
Patients diagnosed with advanced gum diseases are referred to periodontists that might perform a surgical procedure to remove bacteria and infection from the inside of the gum. They help prevent bone or tooth loss due to inflamed and painful gums.
A periodontist can also extract teeth and position dental implants—cosmetic surgery to place a titanium screw into your jawbone. This implant supports the nearby teeth and keeps them stable. Periodontists are mainly known for cosmetic procedures, although they specialize in nearly all gum-related issues.
When to See a Periodontist?
Keller Dentistry has experienced periodontists that can help fix a wide array of gum diseases.
People usually visit a general dentist for scaling, fillings, and other common dental procedures. While deep cleaning can help remove problems on the outer layers of your teeth, it can’t diagnose or fix the problems in the gum.
If your dentist detects a deeper issue during the general procedures, they will refer you to a periodontist. A periodontist can perform a few common types of surgical procedures, including crown lengthening and pocket reduction.
This was all about the difference between the two professionals in dentistry. For more information, talk to Keller endodontists and periodontists.
