Can a Regular Dentist Perform a Root Canal?

When it comes to undergoing root canal treatment, you have two options: your regular dentist or a specialist. Learn more about the differences between these two professionals and when it's best to see an endodontist.

Can a Regular Dentist Perform a Root Canal?

General dentists are trained and equipped to carry out root canal treatments, but there are certain cases where they refer their patients to an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in dental pulp treatments and complete an average of 25 root canals per week, while general dentists usually do two. They are experts in diagnosing and treating tooth pain that has been difficult to identify. Simple root canals can be done by a general or family dentist.

However, if the canal has a complex anatomy that makes it difficult to find, navigate or access the root, it may require the help of an endodontist. Endodontists have more specialized training and experience than general dentists. They are also recommended for teeth with more than one channel, such as molars. When it comes to undergoing root canal treatment, you have two options: your regular dentist or a specialist.

The formal term for a root canal specialist is “endodontist.” A general dentist or family dentist is who you visit each year for regular dental checkups. If your dentist ever refers you to a specialist for certain dental procedures, it is because they care about the quality of work you receive and want you to get the best possible treatment with the best possible prognosis and success rate. General dentists can perform endodontic procedures in conjunction with other dental procedures, but they often refer patients who need endodontic treatment to a specialized office, which works in collaboration with their dentist. Robert Steinberger is one of the best dentists in New York with more than 29 years of experience in general, cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry services in the Bronx, New York.