Specialist Dental Services

Endodontist Services

Endodontics is an area of specialist dentistry for treatment inside the root of a tooth. The most common treatment they perform is root canal treatment.

You will be well looked after with an endodontist. They're specialists who complete an additional three years of endodontic training than a dentist. Endodontists perform a range of routine and complex procedures, including surgery if required. They're also experts at diagnosing and treating the origin of oral and facial pain.

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a specialised type of dentistry focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and the surrounding tissues. Root canal treatment is the most common procedure.

When the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or damaged, treatment is needed to save the tooth. The aim of endodontic treatment is to remove the inflamed or infected pulp. The inside of the tooth is then disinfected, shaped, filled and sealed. This is all done under a microscope, which offers very high illumination and magnification of the root canal system. Following a review by your endodontist, once your tooth has healed well, a crown is often recommended for back teeth to restore them to full strength. After you will return to your dentist, who will place a permanent restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to normal function.

What is an endodontist?

While all dentists are trained to perform routine endodontic treatment, there are times when a general dentist will refer you to an endodontist, for more specialised endodontic treatment. 

Endodontists are dental specialists who have completed both general dental education, plus another three years of focused endodontic training. Endodontists focus on treating issues related to the inside of the tooth. They perform procedures like root canal therapy to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. After completing dental school, endodontists undergo additional years of advanced training in diagnosing tooth pain and performing complex root canal treatments. Their specialist skills make them the go-to for managing severe dental infections and trauma.

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Need to know

Appointments

  • Usually 2 to 3 appointments
  • At the first consultation visit your dentist will examine your teeth and mouth
  • The next visit will be for the treatment
  • Further appointments may be needed if you experience any problems

How long it takes

  • The consultation will usually take around 30 minutes
  • Treatment will usually take around 90 minutes each

You may be asked about

  • Your dental history and medical history
  • Your oral health care routine at home

Before your appointment

  • No special preparation needed

After your appointment

  • Avoid overly hard or chewy foods for a few days
  • You can continue to brush your teeth as normal
  • Take care when flossing daily
  • Reduce the amount of sugary food and drink you consume

Quick tip

The more you rest and take care of your oral health after treatment the faster you will recover.

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Have questions?

The price of visiting an endodontist varies depending on the treatment required and how complex the treatment is. At your consultation visit, your endodontist will examine your teeth and recommend the best treatment option for you. They will also let you know the cost of treatment required.

During the treatment your endodontist will do their best to make their you comfortable through the use of anaesthetics and modern techniques designed to minimise your discomfort. It's important to remember that endodontic procedures are carried out to improve the health of the tooth and prevent ongoing pain caused by the inflamed or infected pulp. The endodontist will provide advice on how to treat any pain. It can usually be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medicines.

When the tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected, endodontic treatment is necessary to relieve pain and prevent further damage or abscess. Causes for this inflammation or infection could include deep decay, repeated dental procedures, a crack or chip in the tooth, or a knock to the tooth – even if there is no outwardly visible damage. Some indications of pulp damage are prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, tooth discolouration, swelling and tenderness in your gums, or there may be no symptoms at all.

While all dentists are trained to perform routine endodontic treatment, there are times when general dentists will refer patients to an endodontist for more specialised endodontic treatment. Endodontists are dental specialists who have completed both general dental education, plus another three years of focused endodontic training.