What's the Difference Between a Periodontist and an Endodontist?

It's important to maintain good oral care and schedule regular dental visits, but there are certain conditions that require specialized care. Endodontists and periodontists are two highly qualified dental professionals who specialize in treating specific dental problems. Find out the difference between an endodontist and a periodontist, their qualifications, and when to seek specialized care. An endodontist is a dentist who has the same skills and credentials as a general dentist, but who has also earned education and certification in the treatment, diagnosis, and management of dental pain and infections that come from inside the tooth. Endodontists complete an additional three years of training beyond dental school to become certified in a variety of root treatments. A periodontist is also a dentist who has the same skills and credentials as a general dentist, but who has also earned education and certification in the treatment, diagnosis, and management of periodontal disease.

These experts complete an additional three years of training beyond dental school to become certified in a variety of gum treatments. Periodontists are similar to plastic surgeons in dentistry, as they place implants, perform laser treatments, lengthen crowns, and even perform regenerative procedures. Ideally, your gums should have a healthy pink color and fit evenly around your teeth. If your general dentist diagnoses you with advanced gum disease, a periodontist may perform pocket reduction procedures (gum surgery) to reduce the formation of pockets and eliminate bacteria below the gum line that could cause infection, bone loss, or tooth loss. Your regular dentist can do just about everything endodontists and periodontists can do. But, the only difference is that the latter are specialists in their field and have more experience and understanding of their respective fields.

Before deciding who you should consult, check out this blog to better understand how periodontists and endodontists differ. Endodontists treat problems related to the inside of the teeth. Periodontists specialize in managing gum inflammation, gum disease, and treating these problems. They help control the symptoms of advancing gum problems, such as oral inflammation. They also place implants, perform laser treatments, lengthen crowns, and even perform regenerative procedures. If you experience inflammation in the gums and are concerned about their appearance, you should consult a periodontist.

For more information on the different specialties of an endodontist, periodontist and prosthodontist, contact Kennewick Dental.