Endodontists are specialized dentists who are highly trained in diagnosing and treating complex dental problems that primarily affect the dental pulp (the inside of the teeth). Their responsibilities include performing intentional reimplantation procedures, advising patients on post-surgery dental care, and prescribing appropriate medications to relieve pain. Endodontists use a surgical microscope and sophisticated tools to repair the tissues inside a tooth. During root canal surgery, patients lie on their back in a comfortable chair and receive local anesthesia to numb the inside of their mouth for their comfort. Endodontists generally work in the dental departments of major hospitals in the country.
They can also work in their private clinics and attend to patients referred by normal dentists. Additionally, some endodontists work on research, designing methods for the effective treatment of teeth. They can also serve as academics and professors at major universities. To be eligible to work as an endodontist, they must undergo rigorous training. Dentists can also perform root canals, but an endodontist has much more experience doing them.
During this time, endodontists focus on techniques to diagnose and treat dental pain that affects the tissues inside (pulp) or around (roots) of teeth. The most common procedure performed by endodontists is root canal treatment, a procedure in which they remove the nerve from the tooth and dental pulp that has been damaged or infected. If you have ongoing pain in your teeth or mouth, see an endodontist to discuss your treatment options. To be successful as an endodontist, you must be able to keep abreast of the latest developments in endodontics to ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment. Endodontists are highly educated professionals with much more practical knowledge than normal dentists. They have incredible hand-eye accuracy and coordination, making them highly skilled in performing complex treatments.
Ultimately, an exceptional endodontist must demonstrate dental competence, patience and excellent communication skills at all times.