### What Do Endodontists Do? Endodontists are specialized dentists who focus on diagnosing and treating tooth pain, diseases, and infections. They receive additional training beyond dental school, which equips them with the skills to perform procedures like root canals. The primary area they treat is the tooth pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. This area can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, injury, or repeated dental work. ### When Should You See an Endodontist? You might be referred to an endodontist for several reasons: - **Tooth Pain and Sensitivity**: If you experience severe tooth pain or sensitivity to heat and cold, it could be a sign of pulp inflammation or infection. - **Bacterial Infection**: Bacteria can enter the pulp through cavities or injuries, leading to infection. - **Tooth Injury**: If your tooth is dislodged or knocked out, an endodontist can reposition and stabilize it, often performing a root canal. - **Chipped or Fractured Tooth**: A large chip or fracture exposing the pulp may require a root canal to prevent infection. ### What to Expect During a Root Canal If you need a root canal, here's what typically happens: 1. **Anesthesia**: You'll receive a local anesthetic to numb the area. 2. **Dental Dam**: A dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry. 3. **Accessing the Pulp**: The endodontist opens the crown of the tooth to remove the damaged pulp. 4. **Cleaning and Shaping**: They clean, reshape, and enlarge the root canal using small files. Medication may be applied to stop any infection. 5. **Filling**: The root canal is filled with a rubber-like material, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. After the procedure, you may experience mild pain, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You'll need to visit your general dentist later to replace the temporary filling with a permanent crown.