Endodontists are specialists in the field of dentistry, focusing on diseases of the dental pulp and how to treat them. To become an endodontist, one must have completed their 10+2 with subjects such as Physics, Chemistry and Biology, as well as electives such as Biotechnology, Psychology, etc. After that, they must complete four years of dental school and two to three years of additional education in an advanced specialty program in endodontics. All programs are accredited by the Dental Accreditation Commission.
Once you have passed the clinical examination, as administered by the competent authority, you will become a board-certified endodontist. Most endodontists work as general practitioners who also perform root canals when needed, while some choose to operate offices where only endodontic procedures are performed. Endodontists must be familiar with how to stabilize and protect the sensitive and vital bowels of teeth. They must also use skills such as observation, critical analysis, problem solving, and creative thinking to find solutions to treat their patients' dental pain.
During their residency, endodontists will learn a myriad of complex technical skills needed to perform root canal treatments and other teeth-saving procedures. The most popular career option for an endodontist is to begin their career as a specialist within a full dental practice. In most cases, a diseased tooth can be saved with endodontic treatment, which is why endodontists are proudly called “tooth saving specialists”. The increasing role of endodontists in the overall treatment of diabetes and heart disease is also a reason for job growth.
An endodontist's salary range can vary greatly depending on how long you've been in practice and where you practice. When a person experiences oral or facial pain, has injured a tooth, or has teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, they can go to an endodontist for help. According to the American Association of Endodontists, there are about 50 such programs across the country. Having earned a degree in dental surgery, an endodontist specializes in the inside of the tooth.
