Can dentists do root canals?
Many people wonder, especially when tooth pain becomes hard to ignore.
General dentists receive training to perform root canals and can treat many routine cases with good results.
Still, some teeth are more complex and may need care from a specialist.
Root canal treatment focuses on removing infected tissue to save the natural tooth and stop the spread of infection.
Knowing who should perform the procedure can affect comfort, cost, and long-term success.
We’ll explain how general dentists and endodontists differ and help you decide which professional fits your dental needs best.
1. What is a Root Canal? Understanding the Procedure
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or injury deep inside a tooth.
The problem often begins when decay reaches the dental pulp, which holds the nerves and blood vessels.
Bacteria can enter this area through deep cavities, cracks, or old fillings.
When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, pain and swelling may occur.
During treatment, the dentist removes the damaged pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth.
The space is then disinfected to remove remaining bacteria.
After cleaning, the tooth is sealed to help prevent future infection.
In many cases, a dentist can perform the procedure during one or two visits.
Local anesthesia is used, so most patients feel little discomfort during the process.
🦷 Is Oral Prophylaxis Different From A Regular Dental Cleaning?
2. Why Crowns and Follow-Up Care Matter After a Root Canal
A root canal removes infection, but it does not fully restore the strength of the tooth.
After the procedure, the treated tooth often becomes weaker and more likely to crack, especially in back teeth used for chewing.
Placing a crown helps protect the tooth and allows it to function normally again.
Without this final restoration, the tooth may break and require further treatment or removal.
Follow-up care is also important to ensure proper healing and comfort.
If the bite feels uneven or sore, a simple adjustment can help prevent ongoing pain.
Patients should return to the dentist if swelling or discomfort continues, since delaying care can increase the risk of failure.
🦷 Can Electric Toothbrushes Damage Enamel?
3. General Dentists vs. Endodontists: Who Are They and What Do They Do?
General dentists play a broad role in dentistry and care for many everyday dental needs.
They treat cavities, place crowns, manage gum health, and help patients maintain overall oral health.
In many situations, a general dentist can perform a root canal, especially when the tooth has a simple structure and mild infection.
Endodontists, on the other hand, focus only on problems inside the tooth, including the pulp and root.
Their work centers on root canal therapy and related treatments that require deeper knowledge of tooth anatomy.
Endodontists complete extra years of training after dental school to handle complex cases.
These cases often involve teeth with multiple roots, narrow canals, or severe infection.
When deciding whether to see a dentist or endodontist, the complexity of the tooth is an important factor.
Both professionals share the goal of saving the natural tooth, but they reach it through different levels of training and focus.
🦷 Can a Tooth Infection Kill You? Understanding the Serious Risks
4. Training and Certification: What Qualifications Do Dentists Need for Root Canals?
In the Philippines, general dentists receive foundational training in root canal procedures during their dental education, enabling them to handle straightforward cases.
Endodontists undergo an additional 2-3 years of specialized training focused on complex issues within the tooth pulp.
They obtain certification from the Philippine Board of Endodontics, which requires completing a two-year Certificate of Proficiency Training and passing examinations.
The Endodontic Society of the Philippines (ESP) promotes continuing education and high standards in endodontic care.
Understanding a dentist’s qualifications and certifications is crucial for patients when choosing who should perform their root canal treatment.
🦷 What Is the Best Way to Brush Your Teeth?
5. When Should a General Dentist Perform a Root Canal?
A general dentist is well-suited to perform root canals on teeth with simpler anatomy, like front teeth or teeth with a single root.
If the infection is mild and the tooth’s structure is straightforward, your general dentist can likely handle the procedure efficiently.
However, in cases where the tooth has multiple roots or more severe damage, your dentist may refer you to a specialist.
General dentists are also a good option if you’re already a regular patient and feel comfortable with their care.
Always ask your dentist if they have experience with your specific case to ensure you’re making the right choice.
🦷 Can Dentists Prescribe Medication? Exploring the Limits of Dental Prescriptions
6. Why See an Endodontist? The Benefits of Specialized Care
Endodontists provide a higher level of expertise for more complex root canal cases, such as molars with multiple roots or severe infections.
Their specialized training enables them to manage more challenging scenarios that might pose difficulties for a general dentist.
Additionally, endodontists have access to advanced tools and techniques, which often lead to more precise treatments and better outcomes.
Seeing an endodontist can also reduce the likelihood of complications, such as retreatment or tooth extraction, down the line.
If your case involves significant pain or complex anatomy, specialized care from an endodontist might be the best option.
🦷 How Can I Prevent Tooth Sensitivity When Eating Hot or Cold Foods?
7. Comparing Success Rates: General Dentists Vs. Endodontists
Endodontists typically have higher success rates with root canals, particularly in more complicated cases.
Their extensive experience and specialized training allow them to navigate difficult root structures and infections more effectively.
While general dentists can also perform successful root canals, the chances of complications, such as incomplete cleaning or the need for retreatment, may be slightly higher.
Endodontists are often called upon to handle these more delicate cases, improving the likelihood of a successful outcome.
For standard procedures, general dentists achieve good results, but for difficult cases, an endodontist’s expertise can make a significant difference.
🦷 Discover the Benefits of Electric Toothbrushes
8. The Technology Behind Root Canals: What Tools Do Dentists Use?
Root canal treatments rely on specialized instruments, such as digital imaging, dental microscopes, and rotary tools, to ensure precision.
Endodontists often have access to more advanced technology, like 3D imaging, which allows them to see complex tooth structures more clearly.
Microscopes enable them to clean out even the smallest areas of infection, reducing the risk of future complications.
General dentists may use simpler tools, which are effective but not as precise in complicated cases.
The type of equipment used can directly influence the accuracy and success of the treatment, especially in challenging root canal procedures.
🦷 Can Dentists Prescribe Antibiotics? Understanding the Scope of Dental Prescriptions
9. Cost Differences: General Dentists Vs. Endodontists for Root Canals
Root canal treatments performed by general dentists are typically more affordable than those done by endodontists.
The higher cost for an endodontist is largely due to their specialized training and the advanced tools they use, which contribute to more precise treatments.
While a general dentist may charge less, choosing a specialist for complex cases could help avoid additional costs from retreatment or complications.
Insurance plans may cover both, but out-of-pocket costs could vary based on the complexity of the case.
It’s important to weigh both the immediate and long-term financial impact when deciding which professional to choose.
🦷 Is an Electric Toothbrush Significantly Better Than A Manual One?
10. Patient Comfort: How Care Differentiates Between Dentists and Endodontists
Endodontists are often more focused on patient comfort, especially during procedures that involve tooth pain or severe infections.
They are trained to manage challenging cases with minimal discomfort by using advanced techniques like sedation or localized anesthetics.
General dentists are also skilled in pain management, but may not have the same level of expertise in handling complex root canal cases.
Endodontists may provide a smoother experience, especially for patients with anxiety or those undergoing more intensive procedures.
Choosing a specialist can result in a more comfortable experience, especially for those concerned about pain during the process.
🦷 Endodontic And Periodontal Treatment in Marikina
11. Choosing the Right Professional: Tips for Finding the Best Dentist for Your Root Canal
Choosing the right professional for a root canal plays an important role in protecting your oral health.
Start by looking at the dentist’s experience with root canal procedures and the type of tools they use.
It is helpful to ask direct questions about similar cases they have treated in the past.
A general dentist can often manage simple cases, but they may refer you to an endodontist if the tooth is complex.
Reviews from other patients can give insight into comfort, care quality, and communication style.
Recommendations from family or friends can also help you feel more confident in your decision.
Cost and insurance coverage should be clear before treatment begins, since fees can vary.
Location and appointment availability may affect how easy it is to complete follow-up visits.
When you choose a dentist you trust, you are more likely to feel at ease and support long-term oral health.
🦷 Full-Service Dentistry in Marikina
👨⚕️ Conclusion
Deciding between a general dentist and an endodontist for a root canal depends on the complexity of your case and the expertise required.
General dentists can handle many routine cases, but endodontists are specialists trained to manage more difficult situations.
The choice you make can influence both the cost and success rate of your treatment.
For a straightforward root canal, a general dentist may be the right fit, but for complicated cases, an endodontist may offer the best care.
Ultimately, understanding the distinctions between the two professionals ensures that you make an informed decision for the health of your tooth.
❔ FAQs
1. Is a root canal painful?
Most people feel little pain during a root canal because the dentist uses local anesthesia.
The procedure is meant to remove the source of pain caused by infection.
After treatment, mild soreness is common for a few days.
This discomfort usually goes away with basic care and proper follow-up.
2. How long does a root canal procedure take?
A root canal often takes one to two visits, depending on the tooth and the level of infection.
Simple cases may be completed in one appointment.
More complex teeth may need extra time to clean and seal properly.
Your dentist will explain what to expect before starting treatment.
3. How long does a tooth last after a root canal?
A tooth can last many years after a root canal if it is properly restored and cared for.
Placing a crown helps protect the tooth from cracking.
Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits also play an important role.
Delaying the final restoration can shorten the life of the tooth.
4. When should I see an endodontist instead of a general dentist?
You may be referred to an endodontist if the tooth has multiple roots or a severe infection.
Endodontists handle complex cases that need advanced skills and tools.
If pain is intense or a past root canal failed, specialist care may be recommended.
Your dentist can help decide the best option.
5. What happens if I delay or avoid a root canal?
Delaying a root canal allows the infection to spread and cause more damage.
Pain and swelling may increase over time.
In severe cases, the tooth may need to be removed instead of saved.
Early treatment gives the best chance of keeping the natural tooth.
😁 Self-Promotion
Visit Tan-Mencias Dental Clinic in Parang, Marikina City, for expert, friendly dental care you can trust.
Whether you need a routine checkup, a root canal, or any dental procedure, our experienced team is ready to provide you with excellent service.
Please use the contact form on our website, give us a call at 0917-145-1074, or leave a message on our Facebook page if you have any questions or concerns.
We’re here to help with all your dental needs and ensure you leave with a healthy, confident smile.
Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities!