How an Endodontist Is Different Than a General Dentist
Posted on 3/2/2026 by Duggan Endodontics Office
Have you ever needed a root canal? If so, you may have wondered what the difference is between an endodontist and a general dentist. Both types of dentists are important for maintaining good oral health, but they have different areas of expertise.
What is a General Dentist?
A general dentist is your primary care provider for your oral health. They provide a wide range of services, including:
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Cleanings and exams: General dentists remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and check for cavities and other oral health problems.
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Fillings: General dentists repair cavities by filling them with a composite material.
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Crowns and bridges: General dentists can place crowns and bridges to restore damaged or missing teeth.
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Extractions: General dentists can remove teeth that are severely damaged or infected.
What is an Endodontist?
An endodontist is a specialist in the field of endodontics. Endodontics focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Endodontists perform a variety of procedures, including:
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Root canals: Root canals are performed to remove infected or damaged pulp from a tooth. This procedure can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
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Endodontic surgery: Endodontic surgery is performed to treat infections or other problems that cannot be treated with a root canal.
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Retreatment: In some cases, a root canal may need to be retreated if the infection returns or if there is another problem with the tooth.
When to See an Endodontist
You may need to see an endodontist if you have:
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Severe tooth pain: This could be a sign of an infected pulp.
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Sensitivity to hot or cold: This could also be a sign of an infected pulp.
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Swelling in the gums or face: This could be a sign of an abscess, which is a collection of pus.
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A broken or cracked tooth: This could expose the pulp and make it vulnerable to infection.
Conclusion
Both general dentists and endodontists are important for maintaining good oral health. However, endodontists have specialized training and expertise in the treatment of diseases of the dental pulp. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see an endodontist as soon as possible.
Have you ever needed a root canal? If so, you may have wondered what the difference is between an endodontist and a general dentist. Both types of dentists are important for maintaining good oral health, but they have different areas of expertise.