Whenever possible, the goal of endodontists and other dental professionals is to save and preserve natural teeth. However, when this is not possible, an endodontist may be able to place one or more dental implants to replace missing teeth that look, feel, and function almost identically to real teeth. Most dental implants and bone grafts can be performed in the office with local anesthesia, with or without general anesthesia. Most dentists are trained to perform dental implant placement and may be able to complete the operation without the need for a third party. However, dentists may be less skilled than an oral surgeon or periodontist when it comes to placing dental implants.
Some statements included: “So, they go to the dark side,” and “I would like the EFA to dump a lot of money on stem cells so that endodontists can provide that care,” without realizing how short-sighted these statements can sound. Implants enjoy similar success rates to well-selected endodontically treated teeth, and endodontists who evolve to include both disciplines are evidence of that change. The definition of the scope of endodontic practice and the accreditation standards clearly indicate that the participation of endodontists in implantology is justified and ethical, contrary to what some may believe. As more endodontists become involved with dental implantology, it is critical that the referring physician and the wider community understand why endodontists are entering this field. If your dentist recommends removing the tooth, ask if an endodontist can help save the tooth with root canal treatment.
In this regard, there is a form of ostracization whereby endodontists can be observed by their peers with peculiarity, or even be investigated by their respective state dental board if they choose to place implants due to arbitrary opinions or a disregard for differences. Endodontists are qualified to talk about teeth and implants and to take the necessary actions to follow that course. Sometimes, the endodontist may not be able to properly call the referring doctor (for whatever reason), or the patient may be sedated orally or intravenously, making the call impractical. Personally, having been an endodontist in private practice full time since 1991, it is a pleasure to study literature, take classes, teach classes and exchange information with colleagues. Surprisingly, some referring physicians might think it's admirable that an endodontist wants to participate and offer another level of care (due to the deficiencies offered by endodontics and periodontics) for certain clinical presentations.
They had to train and pass all the requirements to become a dentist before training to become an endodontist. While the American Dental Association (ADA) varies its definition of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) for the scope of endodontic practice, the question of involving endodontists in implantology is not a concern.
