switch to system theme
Referrals Appointments (818) 990-5222

Conveniently located 16055 Ventura Blvd. Suite #820, Encino, CA 91436

Tooth X-rays

Restorative Dentistry

Why Is an Endodontist Different fron a Dentist?

By Monarchy Media LLC on May 29, 2022 at 4:01 PM

Endodontists and dentists are generally dental care professionals. All endodontists are considered dentists, but less than three percent of dentists are endodontists.

Endodontists have additional training to perform procedures related to the interior tooth, for example, treatments aimed at removing the damaged dental pulp to address tooth disease or gum inflammation.  With that said, here are some of the things that differentiate an endodontist from a dentist.

Endodontists are specialists in the dental field who have undergone additional training for two or more years. Before specializing in endodontics, you should complete a four-year course in a dental school. 

Therefore, to be an endodontist, you should have advanced education. The scope of the endodontics specialty means that you can diagnose dental pulp diseases and treat them appropriately.

Dentists, however, only undergo simple training, which means that they can’t complete procedures related to traumatic tooth injury. Instead, dentists can prepare the tooth crowns and caps after the root canal procedure has been done by an endodontist.

Endodontists have limited expertise. Therefore, they only practice treating dental pulp problems. General dentists can only perform two root canal treatments per week, but the endodontist can do more than 25 root canal procedures within the same period.

In addition, endodontists focus on diagnosing, investigating and treating pain. They are skilled personnel who help other dental professionals identify the cause of facial and oral pain that is difficult to diagnose.

Endodontists are pain management experts. They use specialized methods to offer ultimate comfort and relief to the patient during their treatment period. They administer numbing medications, particularly for patients who have a problem getting or staying numb.

Apart from ensuring that the patients are comfortable and free from tooth pain, endodontists will also do the root canal procedure and ensure that the client is free from pulp inflammation or infection. Pain medications are offered for a good recovery time after the procedure.

Endodontists have sophisticated equipment and materials that make the treatment process easy, successful and comfortable. A dental dam is used to isolate the affected teeth. Therefore, the tiny rubber or plastic sheet is crucial in protecting the rest of the teeth from being damaged by the operating endodontist.

An endodontist uses 3D imaging techniques and radiographs to capture detailed images of the tiny tooth anatomy. Imaging technologies enable them to better visualize the root canal and other surrounding structures.

The root canal spaces are too small to see clearly with the naked eye. Therefore, endodontists use operating microscopes to view the small anatomical structures and operate effectively.

Root canal treatment is a procedure that involves the removal of the tooth centers called the pulp. Pulp contents include connective tissues, blood vessels and nerves. Endodontists or dentists treat root canal problems with local anesthesia. 

The procedure is done only when the pulp is inflamed or infected. Antibiotics are crucial before and after the operation. The root canal treatment is performed to prevent your teeth from undergoing complete destruction or forming a dental abscess due to infection. 

Unfortunately, dentists prefer not to perform the procedure because it can increase the degree of pulp infection, it’s painful, the infection can spread to the gums and it’s also cost-effective. Luckily, it is a lifesaving option if done by a specialized and experienced person despite the huge costs.

Recent Blog Posts

Fresh news from the dentistry world

Why Bone Loss After Tooth Extractions is Important to Understand

Learn about bone loss after tooth extractions, its causes, and how to prevent it. Schedule an appointment at Akemi Dental Specialists today.
Read More

Taking the Mystery Out of Root Planing

Discover how root planing at Akemi Dental Specialists can improve your gum health. Learn about the procedure and schedule today.
Read More

Tooth Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: Understanding the Causes and Finding Relief

Learn why your teeth hurt with hot and cold foods and how Akemi Dental Specialists can help. Schedule your appointment today!
Read More

Considering Tooth Reshaping? Here's What You Need to Know

Discover the benefits of tooth reshaping at Akemi Dental Specialists. Safe, effective cosmetic dentistry tailored to you. Schedule today!
Read More

Is Your Gum Line Changing? Learn About Gum Recession

Learn about gum recession, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments. Protect your smile—schedule an appointment with our dental experts today!
Read More

How Bone Grafting Supports Your Dental Implants for a Beautiful Smile

Discover how bone grafting supports dental implants. Learn the benefits and process. Schedule your appointment now for a confident smile!
Read More

Dental Implant Healing - What You Need to Know

Learn about dental implant healing time, adjustment period, and key questions to ask before getting implants. Schedule your consultation today!
Read More

Can Your Tooth Be Saved? Essential Endodontics Insights You Need to Know

Learn when a tooth can't be saved, how to reimplant a tooth, and ways to preserve a fallen tooth. Act fast—book your dental appointment today!
Read More

Our Patients Love Us

Group employees photo

Dental Specialists Encino, CA

We Look Forward to Serving You

Here's what our patients are saying about us...

Exceptional Care & Service

Dr. Tatsuta and all her staff are friendly, caring, professional, capable, smiling and the treatment is excellent.
Testimonials photos
Michael S.

Highly Recommended Professionalism

I'm a dentist and I just love Dr. Tatsuta and her staff. Very professional! On Time! Great office. I would suggest you go to Dr. Tatsuta.
Testimonials photos
Cory R.

Transformative Dental Experiences

Dr. Okui changed my mind about so many things with my teeth. I went from some pretty bad looking teeth so getting a few replaced. I also got a root canal from Dr. Tatsuta. Both are excellent. I never am uncomfortable. They make me want to keep up with my dental health.
Testimonials photos
Jim H.

Painless, Expert Endodontics

My experience was outstanding. My options for treatment were discussed in a way that allowed me to make an informed decision. The staff was friendly and helpful at all times. Dr. Okui did an excellent job – what a wonderful professional! He called me the same evening to see how I was doing. His office called the next day to see if everything was going well and if I had any questions. All in all, this was an excellent experience. 
Testimonials photos
Sara V.

I Recommend Dr. Tatsuta...

I appreciated the kindness, professionalism and the thorough understandable explanation. I would overall recommend Dr. Tatsuta to anyone! Thank you! 
Testimonials photos
Kathleen G.

office hours

Mon, Fri 6:30 am - 4 pm

Tue, Thu 6:30 am - 5 pm

Wed 6:30 am - 3 pm

Sat, Sun Closed

Akemi Dental Specialists

(818) 990-5222 Submit a Referral
  • 16055 Ventura Blvd. Suite #820, Encino, CA 91436

Endodontic Care Encino, CA

Professional Affiliations

Accreditations logoAccreditations logoAccreditations logoAccreditations logoAccreditations logo
Tap To Call